Chelsea are reportedly preparing a £55 million for Southampton defender Virgil Van Dijk in January.
The Dutchman has been a subject of interest from a host of clubs in the Premier League due to his impressive form for the Saints since he joined.
The Blues are said to be keen on bringing the former Celtic centre-back to the Stamford Bridge but will face a transfer battle from the likes of Manchester United and Liverpool who also considering a swoop for the towering defender.
Meanwhile, Manchester City might join in the race, having missed out on deals for Aymeric Laporte and Leonardo Bonucci.
Reports in the Daily Mail have it that Chelsea and Manchester City are the frontrunners in the race. Southampton are believed to be asking for £55m to let Van Dijk leave St Mary’s.
Although the reports say that price tag will not put Chelsea or City off as they seek to bolster their respective squads.
Antonio Conte is very keen to bring in defensive reinforcements into his squad going into the second half of the season and Van Djik seemingly fits the bill due to his experience playing in the Premier League. With reports that John Terry will be leaving the Bridge at the end of his current contract next summer.
