Chelsea boss Antonio Conte is ready to release Michy Batshuayi for loan next month.

The Sun says Conte will allow the £33million striker to be loaned out when next month's window opens — and target a replacement.

Batshuayi, 24, hopes regular football in the second half of the season will book a World Cup spot with Belgium.

The ex-Marseille ace has scored only two league goals this term and is not a key part of Conte's plans.

West Ham were keen last season and other clubs are ready to join the race.

Last week he came on as a sub against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League then scored two for Chelsea's Under-21s in the Checkatrade Trophy.

Batshuayi was left on the bench as Chelsea fell to a shock 1-0 defeat against West Ham on Saturday.