Chelsea are well on course to lift the Premier League trophy they so limply ‘defended’ last season. As we all know, the Blues slipped from their perch in spectacular fashion in a calamitous campaign, but under Antonio Conte things have been rebuilt, and barring an almighty collapse they will be champions.

Alas, all is not well for their Italian gaffer, who may have to cope without Diego Costa if the Chinese Super League come calling again, with reports having already suggested that a €150 (£128m) price-tag is seen as acceptable in west London for the Spaniard.

Reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport suggest that Andrea Belotti is being targeted by the league leaders, and his stats suggest he could be a viable option…

The 23-year-old has been in sensational form for Torino in Serie A this term, with his 22 goals in 24 appearances a staggering return. On top of that he’s won 52 aerial duels, hinting that he can replace Costa in a physical sense, while his 41 chances created hint at an inventive streak in his game, even if only three of those have been made into assists by team-mates.

Life after Costa? Maybe…