Chelsea eyeing winter swoop for French defender

Chelsea are reportedly monitoring the progress of Lyon centre-back Mouctar Diakhaby with a view to a winter transfer. The 20-year-old has impressed for Les Gones over the past year, although he has not been a regular in the starting lineup.

The France Under-21 international has demonstrated his impressive ability in the air, and his performances have previously attracted interest from the likes of Manchester City and Juventus.

According to The Mail, the Ligue 1 outfit could lose yet another promising prospect with Antonio Conte weighing up a January move for his signature.

The Blues are nearly through to the knockout phase of the Champions League, and Conte is determined to push for domestic and European success by bolstering his side further in the New Year.

Diakhaby graduated through the Lyon youth ranks in 2014, and he has since managed 40 appearances for the former French champions in all competitions.

Chelsea are currently fourth in the league standings following a 1-0 win over rivals Manchester United on Sunday. The Blues trail league leaders Manchester City by nine points.