Antonio Conte identifies free-agent to bolster his backline

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte could turn to former Juventus defender Martín Cáceres this month as he remains focused on bolstering his defence.

Cáceres is a free-agent after he was released from the Old Lady at the end of last season.

Italian source Calciomercato says Conte is considering an offer for the 29-year-old as he feels the need to further strengthen the backline.

The Blues recruited the likes of Marcos Alonso and David Luiz on deadline day, but there still remains a void left by Kurt Zouma's absence through injury.

Zouma is currently recovering from a knee damage, and it would take him another couple of months before he returns to full training.

Cáceres has the ability to play across the defence, and this seems to have urged Conte to ponder over a contract offer.

The Uruguayan international appeared in 89 outings for the Serie A champions during his five-year stint.