Ranocchia on Chelsea radar

Incoming Chelsea boss Antonio Conte is eager to pursue a Bosman move for Inter Milan defender Andrea Ranocchia. The 28-year-old joined Sampdoria on loan last winter after he fell out-of-favour under Roberto Mancini.

Ranocchia has been tipped to make a move overseas when his contract expires at the end of the season.

According to The Star, the Blues could have a say in the player's pursuit with incoming manager Conte said to be a huge admirer of the player's talents.

The Premier League holders are expected to make a move for a new central defender with Kurt Zouma likely to miss the start of the season with a knee injury.

League rivals Everton and Liverpool are also keeping track of the player's situation.

Ranocchia made just 10 appearances for the Nerazzurri before his switch to Sampdoria in January.