Club Plot Shock Move For Chelsea Defender, Conte Set To Let Him Leave

West Bromvich Albion are preparing a loan move want away Blues defender Branislav Ivanovic, according to reports.

The 32-year-old defender has been tipped to leave the Stamford Bridge after falling down the pecking order under Antonio Conte since the Italian boss began using 3-4-3 formation.

Prior reports have it that the Serbian ace will fancy a return to Russia with Zenit Saint Petersburg being the favorites to sign him.

Reports in the Daily Mail now have it that the Baggies have also joined in the race to sign Ivanovic and ready to do a deal in the current transfer window.

The defender was could not make the squad that beat Hull City 2-0 as Conte preferred to go with Kurt Zouma and Nathan Ake on the bench.

West Brom boss Tony Pulis is understood to bring in the veteran to his defence as they sit eighth in the Premier League.

In related news, the Blues have made an improved offer to sign Celtic goalkeeper Craig Gordon after seeing an initial offer of £3m bid turned down.

Reports in the Sun have it that the Scottish keeper wants the move to Chelsea as a possible replacement for second choice goalie, Asmir Begovic who is bound to join Bournemouth.

Gordon’s current contract with Celtic expires in the summer and will jump at the idea of joining the Premier League table toppers although, Celtic has an option to extend his contract for another year.