Chelsea Transfers: 10 Players Antonio Conte Should Sign This Summer

The controversy surrounding Liverpool's approach of Virgil Van Dijk has allowed Chelsea to gain the momentum in the race for the Southampton defender.

Worth a reported £65 million, Van Dijk has impressed since joining the Saints from Celtic in 2015 and is said to be keen on leaving the south coast.

Although the champions only conceded 33 goals in the league last year, the third lowest total of all clubs, Antonio Conte is focusing on his back line in a bid to make sure the Blues retain the title next term. He sees the Dutch centre back as the perfect replacement for the outgoing John Terry.

Hot prospect Kurt Zouma is also expected to be loaned out for the season as he bids to overcome his injury issues, so defensive cover is a priority.