CHELSEA are set to make a move for Ciro Immobile in order to help rebuild the broken relationship with Antonio Conte.
The club and manager have fallen out after a poor summer in the transfer market was followed by an underwhelming start to their title defence. It has led to rumours the Italian is ready to walk away — with Carlo Ancelotti even tipped as a potential replacement.
However, sources have told SunSport that Roman Abramovich is moving to try to bring in Immobile, who Conte believes would complement Alvaro Morata perfectly in attack.
Lazio president Claudio Lotito has already turned down a bid of around £62million from an unnamed Chinese Super League side — however, would likely do business from upwards of £53m with Chelsea.
The Blues will not match the asking price, but they could offer squad players plus cash. Immobile, 27, would welcome the chance to work with Conte again, who was Juventusmanager while he was in the youth team.
And his signature would oblige the Blues boss to extend his stay in West London. Lazio are mounting an unlikely title challenge this season, with Immobile, 27, at the forefront of their success.
His double earned a shock 2-1 win at Juventus — just a month after hat-trick had helped the Biancocelesti beat AC Milan 4-1. However, Lazio have ambitious plans and could use the money to bring in quality additions and bolster their squad as a whole.
Last season, they allowed star man Keita Balde to join Monaco, but have gone from strength-to-strength in his absence. Italian players are always keen to play in London as they find the transition a seamless one.
Despite Immobile's incredible start to the season, which has seen him net 17 goals in all competitions, Chelsea are unlikely to face much competition for his signature.
Juventus are the only Italian side capable of matching the wages on offer at Stamford Bridge — and they aren't in the market for a new front player.
From The Sun
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