Chelsea are considering a £70m bid for Leicester City left-back Ben Chilwell, according to the Sun. Due to the club’s transfer ban, the earliest an offer will be made is next summer, although an appeal against the embargo could allow them to make the transfer in January.

Manager Frank Lampard is believed to be very keen to strengthen the left-hand side of defence, with Marcos Alonso having struggled for form over the past twelve months. The Spaniard could yet depart Stamford Bridge if he is not a regular first-team player this season.

Emerson Palmieri ended last campaign as Maurizio Sarri’s first-choice left-back, having started the Europa League, and pre-season suggests that Lampard will also favour the Italian.

Even so, Chilwell would be seen as an upgrade on the pair. The England international has been heavily linked with Manchester City in recent months and the Blues will be hoping he is still available when their transfer ban is lifted.