RUMOURS: Chelsea plotting Ramos raid

Antonio Conte has identified the Real Madrid captain as a top target, with the Blues still looking to bolster their defensive ranks

Chelsea are readying a big-money approach for Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos, according to Spanish publication AS.

The Blues did see David Luiz return to Stamford Bridge during the summer transfer window, but Antonio Conte remains in the market for defensive reinforcements.

Ramos is considered to be a top target for the Italian tactician, with the 30-year-old centre-half having been heavily linked with a Premier League switch for some time.

Manchester United have headed his list of suitors in the past, but Chelsea certainly boast the financial muscle required to compete in any transfer tug-of-war for the World Cup winner.