Conte right now needs to figure out how the defense will look like without Zouma and Ivanovic. The problem is rather a theoretical one as he already has all defensive positions covered but needs to make sure a backup is available just in case one of his main men gets injured. While the Serbian right-back can be covered right now, it is not the same for the center-backs. Cahill and Terry might not both be available for a 40+ game season which could turn out to be too costly for Chelsea. Zouma will return but there’s no telling how fast he will be back to 100%, Miazga lacks experience and Papy Djilobodji is very likely to leave on loan again. With that in mind here we have a list of center-backs who could represent the perfect solution for the Italian manager. Thanks to Transfermarkt.com for the information and statistics on the players profiled below)…

1. Shkodran Mustafi – 24 – The German international was signed by Valencia back in 2014 but the Spanish side’s lack of perspective might not be what he wanted. Chelsea on the other hand are very likely to provide him challenges similar to what he is used to facing while performing for his national team. He is valued at around £16million which is more than fair. He is also the kind of player who can represent a long-term solution for the club who is in need of top-class defenders to replace Terry.
2. Mateo Musacchio – 25 – Despite going through some tough times due to two major injuries , the Argentine international could be a solid solution for Conte’s defense. Given the fact that he just returned on the pitch in April, he could settle for a substitute role for Terry or Cahill. After starting training with Chelsea and after spending some time on the bench, he could slowly turn into a permanent solution for the Blues. He is probably the riskiest transfer on this list as he had to get over a fractured leg and a thigh/hamstring injury.
3. Konstantinos Manolas – 25 – Probably the best fit for Chelsea. Even though Roma announced he is not for sale, there were no talks of extending the Greek international’s contract. He would be worth the effort regardless of what the Italian side asks for. He is fast, strong and good on the ball. He would be the perfect complement for a massive center-back such as Zouma or Cahill. Manolas is now out due to injury but is expected to return by the end of the month. Currently he is valued at £20million.
4. Aleksandar Dragovic – 25 – This massive center-back is currently under contract with Dynamo Kyiv but just as with Manolas, no talks regarding a contract extension were held. This Austrian international has improved with every season and would be perfect for Premier League football. He is resistant to injury and could fit in easily next to Cahill. He would slow down the defense a bit but would make it up through his strong physique and excellent game awareness.
5. Alessio Romagnoli – 21 – He is one of the most promising center-backs of his generation. The Italian youngster would be the perfect fit next to Zouma and represents a sure investment for the future. He is under contract with Milan until 2020 but Conte’s connections in Serie A could help the Blues sign this rising star. Given the way things are going in Milano, it is very likely that Romagnoli will jump to the opportunity of moving to the Premier League.