Antonio Conte to keep youngster Charly Musonda in January?

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has reportedly opted to keep Charly Musonda at the club for the rest of the season, despite suggestions of the Italian's desire to send the youngster out on loan.

It was initially understood that Conte wanted Musonda to gain more playing time at a different club, but the manager has now decided to wait on the move.

The Belgian scored in his only start this term when Chelsea defeated Nottingham Forest 5-1 in the EFL Cup, with the 21-year-old making three further substitute appearances.

Musonda's future with the Blues seemed in doubt after he posted a controversial message on Instagram, but according to the Evening Standard, Conte wants to keep him at Stamford Bridge.

The Chelsea academy graduate made a substitute appearance in Chelsea's 2-1 defeat against Crystal Palace on October 14, and Conte has suggested that he could be included in the club's EFL Cup tie against Everton on Wednesday.

The Cup game is followed by a trip to Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday.