Chelsea have reportedly identified Leicester City defender Wesley Fofana as a possible replacement for Antonio Rudiger next summer.
Rudiger looks increasingly likely to leave Stamford Bridge when his contract expires at the end of the season, with reports suggesting that Chelsea have not reopened talks over a new deal since August.
A host of Europe's top clubs are thought to be interested in the Germany international, who could become one of the best-paid defenders in world football should he leave on a free transfer.
Chelsea remain eager to keep hold of the centre-back, but they also recognise the threat that he could leave next summer, while Andreas Christensen and Cesar Azpilicueta are also running out of contract.
The European champions are therefore looking at defensive reinforcements, and Goal reports that they have earmarked Fofana as a long-term option.
The 20-year-old is yet to feature this season due to injury, but had established himself as one of the Premier League's most highly-rated defenders prior to his layoff.
Manchester United have also been linked with Fofana in the past, with the same two clubs also interested in Sevilla's Jules Kounde.
Fofana is expected to return from his broken fibula and ankle ligament damage in the New Year, and Chelsea are likely to wait and see how he performs after his comeback before making their move.
The Frenchman is contracted to Leicester until 2025, though, meaning that the Foxes will likely demand a hefty fee for him.
Barney Corkhill
