Chelsea midfielder Oriol Romeu has hinted he could return to former club Barcelona if he was guaranteed regular action by new coach Tito Vilanova.

The 20-year-old left the Nou Camp 11 months ago for Stamford Bridge on a three-year deal, but he was used sparingly during his debut season with the Blues, making just 15 Premier League appearances.

Romeu has slipped further down the midfield pecking order at the west London club following the recent arrivals of Eden Hazard and Marko Marin, and the youngster has expressed his frustration at his lack of game time with the English giants.

The Spain U21 international has a contentious clause in his contract which would apparently allow Barca to re-sign him for £9.5million during the current transfer window or £13m in 12 months' time.

However, Chelsea are adamant the Blaugrana cannot complete a deal without their consent, although Romeu admits he would jump at the chance to head back to Catalonia if it meant he played more frequently.

"If [Barcelona coach] Tito Vilanova wants me there, I would talk to him and discuss it with him," he told Sport. "If they want me to enjoy my football and show some confidence in me, then onwards and upwards.

"Returning to Barcelona is an option but it depends on many things, because I want to play. I've always felt like a big Barcelona supporter, I am very grateful to FC Barcelona and it's thanks to them that I am where I am.

"I wanted to play more and Chelsea showed confidence in me, but if FC Barcelona want you to play, well...

"They have the option to buy me back, I left knowing I had that option, and if they still have confidence in me, as they showed by leaving the option open, then they should let me know."

Romeu says he is so desperate to play that he would consider moving into central defence if it gave him more game time.

He added: "It's been a long time since I played as a central defender but it's all the same for me to play in that position as in midfield. What I want is to play and I'm willing to play in whatever position."