By Paul Joseph
Chelsea have opened talks with Italian Serie A side Atalanta over a potential move for highly rated defender Honest Ahanor.
The Blues are reportedly keen on signing the 18-year-old, who has emerged as one of the promising young defenders in Italian football following an impressive campaign with Atalanta.
Chelsea first expressed interest in Ahanor when they completed the signing of right-back Marco Palestra from Atalanta in July, and discussions have now intensified over a possible transfer.
Atalanta are understood to be willing to sell the young defender if Chelsea meet their valuation of €40 million, approximately £34.3 million.
Ahanor, who is capable of operating primarily as a left-back, joined Atalanta from Genoa last summer in a deal reportedly worth €16 million, with a further €4 million in potential add-ons.
The teenager made 28 Serie A appearances last season and established himself as a regular in Atalanta’s squad. He also made his UEFA Champions League debut during the Italian club’s 2-1 victory over Club Brugge in September.
His rapid development also earned him a call-up to the Italian national team setup in May for friendly matches against Luxembourg and Greece.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has continued to reshape his squad since taking charge at Stamford Bridge in July, with the club making several major additions during the transfer window.
The Blues signed England midfielder Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa for a club-record £117 million and also added experienced Premier League campaigners Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson.
Chelsea will return to Premier League action on Sunday when they host Brighton, following their 3-2 victory over Fulham in their opening league match of the season.
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