Chelsea are keeping a close eye on 22-year-old Wigan Athletic left-back Antonee Robinson, who came close to a switch to AC Milan during the January transfer window.
A £10m switch to San Siro seemed close to completion, but Milan were unable to fully complete his medical before the deadline and ultimately had to send Robinson back to the DW Stadium.
The move may have failed, but it did succeed in propelling Robinson into the limelight. According to The Mirror, Chelsea are one of three clubs who have reached out to the left-back's representatives following the closure of the transfer window.
The Blues are desperately searching for new options at left-back. Neither Marcos Alonso nor Emerson has impressed manager Frank Lampard, who is eager to find someone new in the summer.
César Azpilicueta has been moved over from the right to try and address the issues, but finding a long-term solution at left-back is one of the club's top priorities.
They will face competition from both Newcastle United and Aston Villa, but the Blues will be confident of forcing their way to the front of the queue for his signature.
Chelsea do have a positive history with Wigan, having sent defender Reece James on loan there last season. The youngster was named as Wigan's player of the season after helping them avoid relegation, and he has since blossomed into a real gem in the top flight.
Robinson is expected to do the same at some point in the near future, and plenty of big clubs are believed to have taken notice of him after his failed move to Milan.
Wigan are likely to demand the same £10m fee to part ways with Robinson at the end of the season, which would certainly not be a problem for Chelsea, who did not spend a single penny on senior players during the January window.
The likes of Leicester City's Ben Chilwell and Porto's Alex Telles have both been linked with moves to Stamford Bridge, but Robinson would certainly be a cheaper alternative.
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Source : 90min