Chelsea transfer news: Blues 'continue to pursue Napoli defender' as Antonio Conte seeks defensive reinforcements

The latest transfer rumours from Stamford Bridge

Joe Miles
Friday 09 December 2016 06:31 EST
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Napoli defender Faouzi Ghoulam has scored six goals this season so far
Napoli defender Faouzi Ghoulam has scored six goals this season so far (Getty)

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Chelsea are continuing to pursue Napoli defender Faouzi Ghoulam despite rival interest from Atletico Madrid, according to reports.

The 25-year-old joined Napoli in 2014 and has scored six goals in 19 appearances so far this season.

The Algerian’s superb spell of form has attracted interest from a variety of clubs, TalkSport reports, but a January transfer could be affected by the Africa Cup of Nations.

Antonio Conte has also joined Manchester United in the chase for Southampton’s Virgil Van Dijk, reports the Metro.

The 25-year-old established has a respectable name for himself at St Mary’s and has attracted keen interest from a number of the league's title chasers.

The Dutchman would be a fitting replacement for John Terry as Conte continues to to look to for further defensive options.

Middlesbrough defender Ben Gibson similarly remains a target for Conte, but the Italian will need to be prepared to make a £35m bid to have any chance of bringing the 23-year-old to the Bridge.

According to the Daily Star, Scouts from Everton have also been keeping a watchful eye on the Englishman but Boro seem reluctant to negotiate.

Lastly,Romelu Lukaku has revealed that Chelsea attempted to bring him back to the Bridge prior to the current season.

The 23-year-old impressed on loan at Goodison Park which led to a £27.5m permanent deal. Everton made it clear to their former club that the Belgian was staying put.

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