Chelsea join race for Italian centre-back Giorgio Scalvini | OneFootball

Chelsea have joined the race for Atalanta centre-back Giorgio Scalvini, according to The Sun.

The Blues have admired the Italian centre-back for a long time but have never formalised their interest with an official proposal.

Interestingly, Chelsea are now ready to make a move for the highly rated 22-year-old star and their Serie A counterparts are also willing to strike a deal.

Chelsea have already brought in Maxence Lacroix to bolster their options at the heart of defence.

However, the Blues are also lining up a couple of potential departures that could pave the way for at least one more fresh recruit.

Scalvini is now on Chelsea’s radar and the Blues have been keeping a close eye on his situation. The Italian also wants to move to the Premier League, which should work in Chelsea’s favour.

However, the Blues will likely face serious competition from rivals, including Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United, who are also keeping tabs on the defender.

The Italy international is widely considered one of the brightest young centre-backs in Europe, although his stock has reduced due to recurring injury problems.

Nevertheless, interested clubs believe he has the potential to become a world-beater and are ready to look beyond his injury record.

Atalanta reportedly value Scalvini at around £42 million and will not accept offers below that figure.

Despite the asking price, Newcastle are believed to be considering an opening bid worth around £34m as they look to test Atalanta’s resolve before deciding whether to improve their offer.

Scalvini’s desire for a Premier League move should make it easy for interested clubs to reach an agreement on personal terms without any complications.

However, finding common ground with Atalanta on the transfer fee is where things may get tricky, especially if interested clubs want to negotiate a lesser price.

Scalvini made 30 appearances for Atalanta last season and was one of the club’s standout performers.

He helped to keep five clean sheets and also won 54% of his duels. Scalvini also proved that he can contribute at the top end of the pitch, ending the campaign with three goals and an assist.