Chelsea are reportedly willing to pay a club-record £102.58m in order to sign Juventus defender Matthijs de Ligt next summer.
Although the Blues are currently well stocked for centre-backs, there is uncertainly over the futures of Thiago Silva and Antonio Rudiger.
Brazilian legend Silva turned 37 years of age last week, while Rudiger has less than a year left on his contract and is entertaining offers from elsewhere.
According to AS, Chelsea intend to rectify the issue by launching an approach for De Ligt at the end of the 2021-22 campaign.
Despite the Netherlands international's inconsistent form during his time in Turin, the report claims that the European champions are prepared to pay €120m (102.58m) in order to ensure that Juventus sell one of their most prized assets.
The 22-year-old, who is tied to the Italian giants until 2024, has made six appearances in all competitions this season.
Darren Plant
