Chelsea are reportedly planning an offer for Real Madrid centre-back Eder Militao.
The Blues have lost both Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger on free transfers this summer, which will see them sign at least one new central defender during the summer transfer window.
According to journalist Ekrem Konur, Thomas Tuchel's side have identified Militao as their leading target, with the club planning to make a bid for the Brazil international this summer.
However, Konur claims that Los Blancos boss Carlo Ancelotti is determined to keep hold of the 24-year-old, who was a vital player for the La Liga and European champions last term.
Militao initially found it difficult to break into the Los Blancos side following his arrival from Porto in July 2019 due to the presence of Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane, but the pair both left Bernabeu last summer, which opened the door for the South American to cement his spot in the side.
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Militao still has more than three years left to run on his contract with Los Blancos, but he is believed to be one of the lowest-paid members of the first-team squad, which has led to speculation surrounding his future.
A recent report claimed that Real Madrid are planning to reward the centre-back with a lucrative new deal to reflect his importance to the club.
Militao has scored four goals and registered four assists in 91 appearances for Real Madrid in all competitions, winning two La Liga titles, two Spanish Super Cups and the Champions League.
Last term, he scored once and provided three assists in 34 La Liga appearances, as Ancelotti's side comfortably won the title, while he also featured on 12 occasions in the Champions League, with the capital giants lifting the trophy by beating Liverpool in the final.
Real Madrid have further boosted their defence this summer with the acquisition of Rudiger on a free transfer, and the Germany international has revealed that he turned down Barcelona to move to Madrid.
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However, Militao's spot in the starting XI is believed to be secure, with David Alaba potentially being moved across to left-back, allowing Rudiger to play alongside Militao in the middle.
Chelsea have also been credited with an interest in Sevilla's Jules Kounde, but the Frenchman is said to be determined to secure a move to Barcelona this summer.
Paris Saint-Germain's Presnel Kimpembe has also been linked with a switch to Stamford Bridge, but the Blues would face a battle to convince the French champions to sell.
Chelsea are believed to have agreed to allow Romelu Lukaku to return on loan to Inter Milan for the 2022-23 campaign, which will put them in the market for a new centre-forward.
Robert Lewandowski has been linked with Tuchel's side, as the Poland international attempts to leave Bayern Munich, but Barcelona are firmly at the head of the queue for the experienced striker.
Matt Law
