Chelsea are lining up a “sensational bid” for Atalanta centre-back Giorgio Scalvini, according to reports in Italy.

The 21-year-old is regarded as one of the most talented young players in European football and Tutto Atalanta claim that the Blues may make their move in the “next few days”.

Scalvini is said to be “torn” on whether he should stay with the Serie A side or pursue a dream transfer to the Premier League.

A lot is likely to depend on the size of Chelsea’s offer. Atalanta value the defender at €60m (£52m) and it remains to be seen if Enzo Maresca’s side have room in their budget for the player.

Why is Scalvini being pursued?

Some may point to the club’s negotiations for Ajax’s Jorrel Hato to suggest that the club don’t need to bring in another defender.

However, the Dutchman is being lined up to provide competition for Marc Cucurella at left-back, in addition to offering cover for Levi Colwill.

Scalvini, on the other hand, is a right-footed centre-half, and he has also been deployed as a holding midfielder on occasion. The two players would add depth in different areas of the pitch.

Chelsea may still need to raise cash to fund further signings

While Hato is expected to seal his switch to Stamford Bridge if a transfer fee can be agreed, further arrivals will need to be financed by player sales.

It is believed that Joao Felix’s departure to Al-Nassr has allowed the club to make their move for RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons.

Any approach for Scalvini might hinge on other unwanted players leaving. The Blues are hoping to offload Renato Veiga (€40m/£35m) as well as the likes of Raheem Sterling (£20m), Carney Chukwuemeka (€25m/£21.6m) and Christopher Nkunku (€50m/£43m) before the transfer window closes.

In other news, Chelsea are expected to submit a “formal offer” for a player who has been compared to Jamal Musiala