Chelsea transfer news: Antonio Conte reveals Kenedy set for loan move to Newcastle United

Latest transfer news plus gossip and rumours from the January window

Kenedy is set to head to Newcastle on loan (Getty)

Antonio Conte has confirmed that Kenedy is set to go to Newcastle United on loan, with the deal expected to be concluded by Tuesday evening.

The Brazilian left-back has generally been out of favour for Chelsea and only really used in the early knock-out rounds of competitions, but Rafa Benitez has a planned role for him.

“Yes, I think he's going on loan to Newcastle,” Conte said. “I think this.

“For sure, we are talking about a young player with great potential. At this moment of his career he needs to play with great regularity, and to go to Newcastle this is a great challenge for him. I think this way is a good way for the club.

“We used the same method for [Andreas] Christensen, and now he's a Chelsea player always playing in the starting XI. I think this is a good opportunity for him.

“But, at the same time, he must know he must fight. He must be ready to fight to play in Newcastle. Don't forget, last season in the first half of the season, Kenedy played only 24 minutes at Watford. But now, I think he's more ready.

“He played with us many games, and now he can show his potentiality going on loan.”

Kenedy moved to Chelsea from Brazilian side Fluminense in 2015 and made 14 Premier League appearances for the club.

However he has struggled for playing time over the last two seasons, appearing in just 1 further top-flight game.