Chelsea planning swoop for Bayer Leverkusen defender

Chelsea are reportedly planning an approach to sign Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba at the end of the season.

The Blues have had another tough Premier League campaign and they have been hugely disappointing in a defensive point of view.

They are likely to invest on a marquee centre-back this summer, particularly with Thiago Silva expected to be released after the season.

Tapsoba has been identified as a top target by the hierarchy, but he won't come on the cheap with a €60m release clause in his deal.

Furthermore, the Blues face competition. Tottenham Hotspur are long-term admirers while Manchester United are also keeping tabs.

The Burundi international has been a mainstay in the back three for Leverkusen and it won't be easy to convince him too.

With manager Xabi Alonso confirming his plans to continue at Leverkusen, some of their star players could decide to prolong their stays.

Chelsea are also keen on Sporting's Ousmane Diomande, but Arsenal have an upper hand in the race due to Champions League football.