Conte targets Danish international for Chelsea defence

Simon Kjaer
Simon Kjaer

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte is plotting a move for Fenerbahce centre-back Simon Kjaer according to Turkish sports newspaper Fanatik.

Per the source, Conte has added Kjaer to his shortlist and that the Italian manager will strengthen his defensive line over the transfer window.

Kjaer has been closely linked with a move to Chelsea in the past and a source close to Fenerbahce told Turkish-Football that the Blues have been keeping tabs on their star man – as have several other Premier League and Serie A sides.

The 27-year-old does have a wealth of experience playing in top-tier European leagues from the Serie A to the Bundesliga and Ligue 1 but he has yet to play in the Premier League.

Kjaer does have another three-years remaining on his current contract and is well settled at the Istanbul giants.

Fenerbahce are keen on keeping hold of the Denmark international defender until at least the end of the season.

The Yellow Canaries are currently locked in the Super Lig title race and booked a place in the Europa League Round of 32.

Kjaer has been one of the Istanbul giants most impressive players this season and UEFA recently awarded him a place in the Europa League Team Of The Group Stages.

Fenerbahce finished their Europa League group in first place above Premier League giants Manchester United.

The powerful defender ended up scoring twice in six Europa League group stage matches including a last-gasp equaliser against Zorya in the opening Group A clash and another goal against the Ukrainian minnows in their second encounter.