Antonio Conte remains keen on signing West Ham United’s Michail Antonio as he looks to strengthen his wing-back options at Chelsea.
Various national news outlets claim the 26-year-old utility man is at the top of the Italian’s January shopping list after impressing for the Hammers this season.
The Times reports that Chelsea are ready to add both Antonio and Cologne left-back Jonas Hector to their ranks.
The Premier League leaders have enjoyed great success with their 3-4-3 formation, which has seen Victor Moses and Marcos Alonso fill the wing-back roles.
While both players have thrived this season, it is thought Conte is eager to bolster his options in the specialist position as Chelsea continue their assault on the title.
Conte’s desire to bring more competition into his squad has already seen Nathan Ake recalled from his loan at Bournemouth.
Antonio has been West Ham’s most consistent performer this season and tops the club’s scoring charts with eight goals in 27 appearances.
He has been deployed in multiple positions, including as a makeshift striker, but it is his displays in defence which are said to have caught the eye of Conte.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article