Chelsea interested in signing versatile Real Madrid defender Nacho but face stiff competition from Roma and Villarreal
Antonio Conte could launch bid as Spaniard holds talks with Bernabeu chiefs to figure out Zinedine Zidane's plans
CHELSEA are reportedly interested in signing Real Madrid ace Nacho.
claims the Blues are hopeful of landing the versatile defender this summer after he held talks with Bernabeu chiefs about his future under Zinedine Zidane.
Nacho is Real’s fourth-choice centre-back behind Sergio Ramos, Pepe and Raphael Varane, and he is keen to see regular action.
Zidane apparently wants to keep him in Spain but could be open to a sale if the price is right.
However, Nacho’s current deal runs until 2021 and potential suitors would be forced to cough up a large fee to secure his signature.
Chelsea are not the only team said to be watching Nacho, with Roma and Villarreal also keen.
The 26-year-old made a name for himself with the winning goal against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last season, and the report adds he is waiting to see how he fits in Zidane’s plans before making a decision on his future.
Chelsea appear to be targeting Nacho after a move for Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly hit the rocks.
President Aurelio De Laurentiis was enraged after the player revealed he intends to speak with Blues boss Antonio Conte over a transfer.
The Napoli chief even threatened to sue after claiming he lost out on millions in marketing deals, adding that Koulibaly will be expected to see out the remaining three years of his contract.
Chelsea are also at risk of losing talented youngster Andreas Christensen to Borussia Monchengladbach.
The defender is half-way through a two-year loan in Germany, but the Bundesliga side have revealed they plan to make him their club-record signing after selling Granit Xhaka to Arsenal.