Leonardo Bonucci found his name in the headlines this week after a reported bust-up with Massimo Allegri put his Juventus future in doubt.
The Italian was constantly linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in the summer following Antonio Conte’s arrival at the club.
With John Terry expected to leave the club in the summer and Branislav Ivanovic departing in the January transfer window, the Blues could be considered slightly light at the back.
Chelsea brought Nathan Ake back from his loan spell at Bournemouth during the January window and also look set to welcome back Andreas Christensen from Borussia Monchengladbach in the summer.
Despite that, the club will have the added fixture congestion that Champions League football will present. The importance of having a strong squad will shine through this time next season.
So, we look at five defenders that Chelsea could look to sign in summer to improve the back line.
Leonardo Bonnucci
Let’s start with the man himself. Rated as one of the best in his position in European football.
If Chelsea could strike a deal for the Juventus defender, it would be a huge statement of intent going into next season.
He’d cost a lot, but what a deal it could be.
Stefan de Vrij
De Vrij would be the perfect option to slot into the defence at Stamford Bridge.
Coming to the end of his contract with Lazio, de Vrij is widely expected to leave the Italian outfit at the end of the season.
He’s got plenty of experience under his belt and could be a real option for Chelsea.
Luke Shaw
This would be a controversial one wouldn’t it? Shaw is out of favour under Jose Mourinho since he took over at Old Trafford.
If he were to become available in the summer he could prove to be an excellent addition for the wing-back role.
Kalidou Koulibaly
Chelsea chased him throughout the summer and were unsuccessful, so you can imagine they’ll do the same in the next window.
Conte is clearly a fan!
Alessio Romagnoli
Could you imagine, Conte working with a young Italian defender with bags of potential? It could be a match made in heaven.