Mario Pasalic to leave Chelsea on permanent deal?

Chelsea midfielder Mario Pasalic will reportedly join Atalanta BC on a permanent deal during the next transfer window.

Despite joining Chelsea in 2014, Pasalic has never played a single minute of competitive action for the Blues, instead spending loan spells at Elche, Monaco, AC Milan, Spartak Moscow and Atalanta.

During his period at the latter, the Croatia international has established himself as one of the best midfielders in Serie A, contributing 10 goals from 56 appearances since the start of last season.

Holding an option to sign the 25-year-old for just £13.5m, Tuttosport claims that Atalanta will take advantage of that clause in the coming months.

In theory, the deal makes sense for all parties, with Chelsea making a profit in excess of £10m if there is no change of plan from Atalanta.

However, Atalanta will also feel that they have pulled off a shrewd piece of business, aware that Pasalic is valued considerably more than £13.5m in the current market.