Chelsea have had a £20 million bid for Everton star John Stones rejected, according to the Daily Mail.
With the 21-year-old still having four years left on his contract at Goodison Park it could be that Jose Mourinho finds it difficult to prise the England international away from Merseyside unless he offers a truly mammoth fee.
If he does, then here are five players to have been previously linked to Chelsea who the the Portuguese coach could move for…
5) Antonio Rudiger, Stuttgart
Already a regular at the Bundesliga side despite being just 22-years-old, and also able to play at right-back like Stones.
The Metro have linked the Blues to the Germany international, but a recent knee injury may put things on hold.
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4) Raphael Varane, Real Madrid
The Daily Express believe that Jose Mourinho is keen on a reunion with the 22-year-old, but it may be difficult to take him from the Bernabeu. After all, why would Real agree to offload one of the world’s finest young centre-backs?
However, with Sergio Ramos and Pepe currently ahead of the youngster in the pecking order it could be that the player would be interested in a move.
3) Samuel Umtiti, Lyon
With Kurt Zouma already looking like the future of the Blues defence, having a compatriot and a fellow French speaker to partner him could be perfect, and may allow the two youngsters to develop a rapport.
The Daily Express have reported interest from Stamford Bridge in Umtiti, and the 22-year-old does have the potential to match Zouma’s early impact in the Premier League.
2) Diego Godin, Atletico Madrid
With John Terry now 34-years-old, Chelsea are going to need to replace his experience in the middle of their back line.
29-year-old Godin could do so, and after helping the Rojiblancos to the Liga BBVA title two seasons ago, he clearly has the same desire to win.
The Daily Express have linked the Pensioners with a move for the Uruguayan defender
1) Nicolas Otamendi, Valencia
Although Manchester United have been heavily rumoured to be making a move for the Argentina international, the Metro think Chelsea could hijack that deal.
After helping Los Che to concede just 32 goals in 38 La Liga games last season, the 28-year-old could fit right in to Mourinho’s defence.