Chelsea have been linked with a number of central defender targets this summer, with Southampton's Virgil van Dijk and Juventus' Leonardo Bonucci the main two, before links to Bayern Munich defender Jerome Boateng popped up.
But the latest in Chelsea's pursuit of another centre-back, is that the Blues have begun negotiations over the signing of Roma defender Antonio Rudiger.
Image: PA
The availability of the Germany international, currently preparing for the Confederations Cup final in Russia, has come about because of the collapse in fellow defender Kostas Manolas' proposed move to Zenit St Petersburg.
The Greek international looked set to move to the Russian giants but failed to turn up for a medical and now the deal looks dead in the water.
It comes as a boost for Chelsea though, as Roma may now allow Rudiger to leave instead.
Various outlets have today reported that Chelsea have opened talks, with Gianluca Di Marzio saying the player's brother and agent will soon be in London to progress negotiations further.
The 24-year old joined Roma on loan from Stuttgart for a fee of €4 million in August 2015 and after a series of impressive displays at the heart of the backline, was snapped up permanently for a fee of €9 million when the following summer rolled around.
Image: PA
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Rudiger has made a total of 67 appearances for the Giallorossi in all competitions, and has featured for his country on 16 occasions - the most recent being in the 4-1 win over Mexico which saw Joachim Low's side secure passage to the Confederations Cup final.
The Mirror's John Cross says Roma value Rudiger around the £30 million mark, and Chelsea are "hopeful" of thrashing out a deal.
Chelsea fans, would you welcome the signing of Rudiger or are there better available options out there?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Chelsea, Antonio Rudiger
