Chelsea invite former AC Milan goalkeeper Marco Amelia on trial

Thibaut Courtois, the club's first-choice 'keeper, is out until December with a knee injury

The 33-year old Italian was part of his country's victorious 2006 World Cup campaign

Chelsea have handed a trial to AC Milan goalkeeper Marco Amelia with a view to signing the free agent as cover.

Asmir Begovic has started the last five games for Jose Mourinho's side following a knee injury to first-choice 'keeper Thibaut Courtois, which will keep the Belgian out of action until December at the earliest. Jamal Blackman, 21, is currently the Blues' only back-up in the position and, despite being pleased with Begovic's form, Mourinho wishes to prevent a goalkeeping emergency.

The defending champions have six free spaces in their Premier League squad, which can contain a maximum of 25 players over the age of 21. Amelia, a 33-year old with nine caps for his country, would be allowed to join the club immediately, outside of the transfer window, given his status as a free agent.

The Italian spent four years with Milan between 2010 and 2014, mostly being used as back-up to first-choice Christian Abbiati. Amelia neverthless made a total of 41 appearances for the club before joining amateur side Rocca Priora and Serie B outfit Perugia. He was also part of Italy's victorious 2006 World Cup squad.

Mourinho ruled out signing a 'keeper on an 'emergency loan' last week, referring specifically to Porto's 37-year-old shot-stopper Helton. “We need a goalkeeper now, not in January,” he said. “Helton has a contract with Porto and would only be available in January. Then Courtois will be available.”

Chelsea taken on Porto, one of Mourinho's former club, on Tuesday night in their second Champions League group game of the season.