Chelsea are now one of the most aggressive suitors in the race for a "powerhouse" defender, and they could be prepared to make a huge bid.
Blues told to sign new defender
The Blues have been urged to bring in a new centre-back during the upcoming transfer window, with Darren Bent suggesting former defender Thiago Silva could have been a savvy addition, despite turning 41 back in September.
The ex-striker said: "I played against Thiago Silva when he was in his pomp. Oh my goodness, animal! Brazil versus England… animal. He had everything: jumps, quick, powerful.
"But now, he just reads the game so well and if I’m Chelsea then I’m trying to bring him back."
However, with the Brazilian recently making the move to FC Porto, BlueCo have now set out to bring in a younger, up-and-coming prospect, who is being targeted by a number of Europe's biggest clubs.
honest-ahanor-atalanta
That is according to a report from Caught Offside, which states Chelsea have now emerged as one of the most aggressive suitors in the race for Atalanta defender Honest Ahanor, with the 17-year-old also of interest to Arsenal, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.
Such is the Blues' level of interest, they could even be prepared to make a bid of around €60m (£52m), with any deal likely to be on the expensive side, as the Italian club value the youngster highly, and don't want to cash-in too early.
At the moment, Ahanor remains under contract until 2028, so there is no pressing need for Atalanta to sanction a sale, but the defender's reputation is growing, with his ability in possession of the ball particularly catching the eye.
"Powerhouse" Ahanor could be future star
Back in May, scout Ben Mattinson suggested the teenager could be in line to make a major breakthrough this season, while also praising his pace and upper body strength.
Mattinson's prediction has proven to be correct, with the starlet going on to make 13 appearances in all competitions, including four in the Champions League, helping his side keep a clean sheet in a 1-0 victory against Marseille back in November.
The Aversa-born defender then went on to grab his first professional goal in a 4-0 rout against his former club, Genoa, earlier this month, during which he won all four of the duels he contested.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca before the start of the second half Related
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He's enjoyed a 'rapid adaptation' to coaching.
Ahanor is exhibiting very promising signs at Atalanta, but it would still be a little early for Chelsea to submit a bid in the region of £52m, and they should wait until the end of the season before making any approach.