Chelsea are pushing to sign Werder Bremen star Karim Coulibaly, and the German side's asking price has now been revealed.
The Blues have been keen to bring in a new centre-back throughout the summer transfer window, as stated by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who revealed Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix had been identified as their number one target.
However, despite holding talks, the west Londoners are yet to get a deal for Lacroix over the line, and Barcelona's Jules Kounde has been offered as a potential alternative, while Coulibaly has also emerged as a major target.
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Chelsea identify Karim Coulibaly as prime target
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Chelsea have now entered negotiations to sign Coulibaly, who could cost between €40m - €50m (£34m - £43m), having identified the young centre-back as their prime target.
The Blues are pushing to get a deal over the line, with new manager Xabi Alonso eager to bolster his options at the back.
Why Maxence Lacroix could have the edge on Karim Coulibaly
Chelsea clearly need to improve their options at centre-back if they are to start competing for top honours once again, with their defensive frailties being exposed in the round of 16 Champions League exit at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain, losing 8-2 on aggregate.
However, Lacroix may be a more suitable option than Coulibaly. First and foremost, the Palace defender could be in his prime years at 26-years-old, while he has also proven himself in the Premier League, making 70 appearances over the past two seasons.
Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix and Jefferson Lerma in action with Leeds United's Ethan Ampadu and Dominic Calvert-Lewin
The Bremen star, on the other hand, has made a total of just 27 senior appearances, albeit he received 2,122 minutes of game time in the Bundesliga last season, which is likely to have benefitted his development.
However, the five-cap France international averaged 7.3 clearances and 1.3 interceptions and 1.7 tackles per 90 in the Premier League last season, compared to figures of 4.5, 1.1 and 1.1 from Koulibaly in the Bundesliga, which indicates Lacroix is currently the superior player.
Rayo Vallecano's Pep Chavarria celebrates after the match Related
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