According to reports in the Daily Mail, Chelsea are reportedly eyeing Bayern Munich centre-back Jerome Boateng as a potential alternative to Southampton’s Virgil van Dijk this summer.

What’s the word, then?

Well, the Blues’ top target as Antonio Conte looks to sign a new centre-half is Van Dijk, but with Saints demanding that they get more than £50m for him – which would be a world-record deal for a defender – they are starting to make enquiries on other players.

The west London outfit are keen to get their business done early and the fact that the south coast outfit could sack manager Claude Puel is also causing further delays in any potential deal, and Bayern star Boateng is a possible arrival.

How has he done this season?

It has been a bit of a frustrating campaign for the 28-year-old after he suffered a number of injuries throughout the season, and he made just 21 appearances in all competitions for the Bundesliga champions.

Bayern have already agreed a deal to bring Niklas Sule to the club from Hoffenheim this summer and it could push the Germany international further down the pecking order under Carlo Ancelotti.

Would he be a good signing?

As long as he overcomes the injuries that have hindered him this term then yes, he certainly would be.

Boateng established himself as one of the best centre-backs in the world for club and country over the course of the last few years and he has all of the attributes that Conte will want from a defender.

The 28-year-old is strong in the air, comfortable on the ball and has an impressive range of passing, while he is also not afraid to throw his body on the line.

What’s the verdict, then?

While Van Dijk is the priority and would undoubtedly be a great signing for Chelsea this summer, Boateng has won a World Cup and five Bundesliga titles during his time with Bayern Munich and would arrive with a lot of pedigree.

If the German giants are willing to sell and he is available for a lower fee than Van Dijk, than Conte could opt to sign the 28-year-old.

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