Chelsea to retain interest in Serie A midfielder

Premier League leaders Chelsea will return for the services of Antonio Candreva in the summer after having previously failed with an approach in the winter transfer window.

The Italy international had been the subject of a late bid from Chelsea in January, but the Nerazzurri were not keen on losing their asset during the campaign.

According to Corriere dello Sport, the Blues will revive their pursuit of the attacker in the summer with Antonio Conte keen on a reunion with the player he worked with in the Italian national team.

Candreva has earned 34 appearances across all competitions for the Nerazzurri since his move from Lazio last summer, and it is understood that the club's hierarchy will prevent his exit unless the Blues cough up a fee of around £26m.

Chelsea have looked a settled side in their quest for the Premier League title this season, but Conte is aware of the need of sufficient backup with Champions League football almost guaranteed for next season.