Chelsea eyeing swoop to land defensive star from European semi-finalists

Chelsea are eyeing significant improvements to their side after missing out on Champions League football, which has led to interest in a top-class defender.

Italian outlet Gazzetta Dello Sport claims Chelsea are looking to take advantage of Alessandro Florenzi’s position with Roma, as he’s yet to agree a renewal with the Champions League semi-finalists and could be sold.

Florenzi, tipped as a future captain in the Italian capital, is demanding a wage that would put him amongst the top of the earners at the Stadio Olimpico, alongside the likes of Radja Nainggolan and Edin Dzeko, but it’s difficult for Roma to financially secure.

As such, Chelsea are eyeing a move for the Italy international and he could arrive as a superb addition at Stamford Bridge – particularly as David Zappacosta is being heavily linked with an exit from the Blues, amidst interest from Inter Milan.

Roma’s sporting director Monchi is determined to retain the services of Florenzi and will command a high price if a sale is to go ahead.