Chelsea reportedly remain confident that they will eventually sign Sevilla defender Jules Kounde.
The Blues made a major play for the France international during the summer transfer window, only for his club to insist on the player's release clause being met in full.
Thomas Tuchel ultimately promoted academy graduate Trevoh Chalobah instead, a move which has conclusively paid off, but Chelsea have doubts over several of their other central defenders.
According to 90 min, those behind the scenes at Chelsea feel that it is only a matter of time before Kounde makes the switch to Stamford Bridge.
Sevilla may be more willing to part ways with the 23-year-old for less than his £68m release clause at the end of the season.
Nevertheless, it is suggested that the European champions may be prepared to activate that option just to steal a march on any rivals for his signature.
