Chelsea have activated a clause to recall Trevoh Chalobah from his loan spell at Crystal Palace.
Chalobah joined Palace on a season-long deal that included an option for Chelsea to bring him back at the midway point.
They have now triggered that mechanism and the 25-year-old defender will return to Stamford Bridge with immediate effect.
It means he will not be available for Palace when they travel to Leicester City on Wednesday, having made 14 appearances since moving there in August.
Chalobah’s impressive form — and availability to help a back line depleted by injury — means he is expected to play an important role under Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca in the second half of the campaign.
A good relationship between all parties helped facilitate the transfer originally and there is appreciation at Chelsea for Palace’s handling of the matter.
Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile are currently sidelined with injuries with Josh Acheampong, the academy graduate who recently signed a new contract with the club, starting Tuesday night’s draw with Bournemouth alongside Levi Colwill.
Chelsea are next in action against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday.