Chelsea’s defence has been the backbone of their emphatic recent form. The Blues have conceded just two goals in their last eight Premier League games, scoring 22 in the process.
That, reportedly, has not stopped Antonio Conte looking to strengthen his back-line. Calciomercato report that Chelsea are interested in Napoli duo Kalidou Koulibaly and Faouzi Ghoulam.
Since switching to a back-three, Chelsea’s need for centre-back reinforcements has grown; there is now an extra spot in the side to fill. It also remains to be seen if Cesar Azpilicueta is a long-term option in the centre of defence, as he is a full-back by trade.
Conte signed Marcos Alonso in the summer transfer window, but he does not have any genuine competition at left-wing-back, and Ghoulam would provide quality in reserve.
Calciomercato do note, however, that Ghoulam is in negotiations with Napoli over an extension to his current deal. It is also reported that the Algerian has been scouted by Atletico Madrid director of sport Andrea Berta, with the La Liga giants also said to be interested.
Chelsea are top of the table and Roman Abramovich will likely see this as a genuine opportunity to win the Premier League title. Don’t be surprised if the Blues spend big in January.