Chelsea make approach for Rennes defender

Premier League champions Chelsea have reportedly made an approach to sign Rennes defender Joris Gnagnon ahead of this summer's transfer window.

The France under-20 international has made himself a regular with the Ligue 1 club since his breakthrough spell in the second half of last season.

Gnagnon has already earned a decent tally of 38 appearances for the French outfit, and his progress appears to have captured the attention of a whole host of European clubs.

Tottenham Hotspur, Porto and Borussia Dortmund are among the top elite clubs said to have monitored his performances, while Sevilla have already lodged an £11m offer for the talented centre-half, SFR Sport claims.

Blues boss Antonio Conte is keen on recruiting a new central defender to his ranks this summer, Gnagnon appears to be propping up the summer shortlist.

The 20-year-old is keen to ply his trade in a bigger league next season, but will not place a transfer request out of respect for his current employers.

Conte will have the chance to secure a domestic double in his maiden season in English management when his side take on Arsenal in the FA Cup final on Saturday.