Chelsea eyeing surprise move for Bournemouth star

Chelsea are keeping tabs on Bournemouth centre-back Illia Zabarnyi ahead of a potential approach next year.

The Blues currently have Wesley Fofana and Levi Colwill as their preferred central defensive duo, but manager Enzo Maresca is eyeing better competition for places.

Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi can all provide back-up, but the Italian tactician is keen on adding a player, who can push for a starting spot.

Zabarnyi has been identified as a top target for the Blues. The London giants had scouts in attendance to watch the 22-year-old in action against Tottenham.

Teamtalk report that the Blues could weigh up an approach next year, but it remains to be seen whether the Cherries contemplate his departure anytime soon.

The South Coast outfit are not an easy opposition to negotiate with. They sold Dominic Solanke to Spurs for £65m and could demand something similar.

Zabarnyi has also been linked with Tottenham in the past. The Blues could face competition from their London rivals for his services.