As reported by The Times, Chelsea are ready to start building next season's Champions League competing squad and have targeted Monaco star Bernardo Silva.

What's the story?

The Blues are well on their way to a league title and at the bare minimum look set to qualify for Europe's biggest club competition next season. That's why Antonio Conte is already identifying targets to help them compete at the highest level.

The Times reckon one man at the top of Conte's shopping list is Portuguese attacker Bernardo Silva. They face significant competition though with Barcelona, Real Madrid and both Manchester clubs all eyeing a move.

It would cost them too with the paper reporting that Monaco are looking for close to £70m for their man.

Worth it?

Bernardo has been a consistent performer for Monaco for two and a half seasons now and appears primed to make the next big step in his career after joining the Ligue 1 side from Benfica. With 24 goals in 120 appearances from attacking midfield, it's clear he has the goal threat required to boost the Chelsea squad from the off.

It's likely his future potential that interests the Blues though, at just 22 years old he's regarded as one of the brightest prospects in Europe. That's highlighted by his 10 caps for a talented Portugal side.

The reported £70m is a lot of cash, even for Chelsea. It could still be a smart investment though, especially if it stops rival teams around Europe from picking up and developing his talent. If he truly is going to be Portugal's next world class star then the Stamford Bridge side would likely be happy to pay a premium for him, especially if he can directly influence their European ambitions.

[ad_pod id='Shoot-Xmas-Survey' align='left']

[ad_pod id='playwire' align='center']