Chelsea prefer Billy Gilmour loan over Brighton sale as midfielder travels to Southampton

Chelsea would prefer Billy Gilmour loan rather than sale as Brighton and Hove Albion seek a permanent transfer, with the midfielder travelling vs Southampton.

Gilmour spent last season on loan at Norwich City in a fairly unsuccessful move as the Canaries suffered relegation.

The Scotland international faced heavy criticism from Norwich fans throughout his time on loan and returned to Chelsea at the end of his spell, hoping for a better time at the club.

Chelsea's Billy Gilmour portrait during the friendly football match Udinese Calcio vs Chelsea FC. (Alamy)

Making 24 Premier League apparances last season, Gilmour could not help his side remain in the league as Norwich suffered relegation.

The 21-year-old was not handed a squad number at the beginning of the season, with his Chelsea departure looking more and more likely.

However, the Blues triggered an extension in his contract to see Gilmour remain at the club until 2024.

But now it appears that he could still leave on a permanent this summer, with Brighton the most interested side in purchasing him.

Gilmour has since been handed the number 35, with it reported that he has travelled with Chelsea to face Southampton.

As reported by The Athletic, Brighton are exploring a move for Gilmour.

However, the Seagulls would need to secure a permanent transfer for the Scotland international.

They have already taken Levi Colwill on a temporary deal, with the defender set to return to Stamford Bridge next summer.

Graham Potter is thouhgt to be keen on securing Gilmour's services.

Levi Colwill is on loan at Brighton. (Alamy)

The Blues are thought to prefer to send Gilmour on loan rather than sell him.

Negotiations are ongoing for the midfielder, who is yet to appear for Chelsea.

He could make his first appearance of the season as Chelsea face Southampton, with the 21-year-old thought to have travelled.

Thomas Tuchel will have to make a decision on Gilmour's future, with N'Golo Kante currently injured.

Conor Gallagher is also suspended and will not face Southampton, with Gilmour likely to be named on the bench.