Chelsea have reportedly had a £26m bid for Roma defender Kostas Manolas rejected, but the Blues are certainly looking in the right place for a replacement for John Terry.
According to The Sun, the current Premier League champions have set their sights on the Greek international, who has continued to develop into one of the best centre-halves in Europe during his time in the Italian capital.
Although it is claimed that Roma will only accept a sale closer to £35m, it remains to be seen whether or not Chelsea return with an improved offer.
The Blues are in the market to find a successor to Terry, who will see his current contract with the club expire at the end of the season.
With a lack of talks and progress over a new deal, it appears as though the former England international could be bidding farewell to the west London outfit in the summer, and in turn that represents an issue for the club who need to sign a replacement capable of stepping into his boots.
Manolas would certainly fit the mould of the type of defender that they require, as the former Olympiacos star has strength, pace, good positioning sense and is consistent in his performances.
While he was guilty of switching off earlier in his career at times, it appears as though his focus has improved too and in turn it has helped Roma become a more solid side.
The Giallorossi are currently in the midst of an eight-game winning streak in Serie A, a run that has seen them move five points clear into third spot with nine games remaining which will give them a chance to qualify for the Champions League next season.
While they sit just eight points adrift of league leaders Juventus, a return to Europe’s top table next season will be crucial to their chances of keeping their top names.
Manolas will want to feature in the competition next season, and coupled with the financial boost that qualification provides, it will ensure that the capital club don’t have to sell to balance the books, as they have done in the past with the likes of Marquinhos and Erik Lamela.
Nevertheless, Chelsea are certainly looking in the right place for a heir to Terry, but it remains to be seen if they are successful in signing him.