Chelsea want Ajax midfielder as Cesc Fabregas replacement

FA Cup holders Chelsea have reportedly identified Ajax midfielder Donny van de Beek as the prime target to replace Cesc Fabregas in either January or at the end of the season.

Fabregas, 31, has been an integral part of the Chelsea first-team over the past four seasons but his position has been put into doubt of late with his contract expiring in nine months' time.

Amidst this, the Blues are said to be evaluating possible options to replace him and according to Italian journalist Aldredo Pedulla, Van de Beek has been earmarked as the leading target to replace the Spaniard.

The likes of Barcelona and Tottenham Hotspur are also said to be in the running for the 21-year-old's signature, although Ajax are likely to restrict any player exits until next summer at the least.

Aside from Van de Beek, compatriot Frenkie de Jong has also been tipped for a big-club move over the past year but so far, he has been content to ply his trade for the Dutch giants.