Chelsea have taken steps to avoid a dressing room revolt, and believe that Antonio Rudiger's contract demands could cause a big division at the club.
The Daily Star reports that Rudiger wanted a minimum salary of £200,000 a week, but the Blues' offer fell some £60,000 short of that figure.
It now appears that the conflict will not be resolved, with the German set to leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the season.
Another report from the Daily Telegraph says that The Blues would reportedly be willing to increase their current contract offer, but have a delicate balancing act to keep with a number of other players entering the final six months of their deals.
Andrea Christensen is one player that has rejected two contract extensions, while Cesar Azpilicueta and Thiago Silva are yet to renew their deals at the club.
Meanwhile, Mason Mount and Reece James are both expected to receive new contract offers to stave off interest from other clubs.
But the issue surrounding Rudiger is heightened given that the Blues only have Trevoh Chalobah and Malang Sarr available as their only two fit central defenders - the latter having only made just one top-flight appearance for the club.
The German has continued to play a key role in Thomas Tuchel's squad this season, making 24 appearances across all competitions and scoring two goals.
Chelsea are next in action on Wednesday night when they host Brighton & Hove Albion at Stamford Bridge, looking to build on the Boxing Day win away at Aston Villa.
The result left them third with 41 points from 19 games, six adrift of league leaders Manchester City after their thrilling 6-3 win over Leicester City the same day.
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