Chelsea have stormed to Premier League success this season but the Blues face a challenge in the summer to rejuvenate their side for a title defence next season and a return to the Champions League.

Antonio Conte’s side have certainly benefitted this season from an absence for European endeavours this season and his squad at Stamford Bridge lacks significant depth in certain areas, which is something that needs to be addressed.

Chelsea have been linked to an array of top-class signings ahead of the opening of the transfer window this summer but one major deal would be a huge statement of intent and would show the rest of the Premier League the Blues mean business.

The Independent reports Chelsea are growing increasingly determined to test Arsenal’s resolve this summer with a swoop for Chilean superstar Alexis Sanchez, as Conte believes the former Barcelona man would be a huge addition to his side.

Alexis has excelled in a forward role this season, scoring 23 Premier League goals, but he’s set to enter the final 12 months of his deal at the Emirates Stadium and seems unlikely to pen a new deal due to the Gunners’ disappointing campaign.

Arsenal are determined not to sell to a Premier League rival and would prefer Alexis to move abroad but the Chilean’s contract status doesn’t put the North London outfit in a strong negotiating position and Alexis has the power in any deal.

Should Alexis have his head turned by the Blues, which is certainly possible considering he’s happy in London and wants to remain in a big city, Chelsea’s summer could be sensational and it would crucially send a big message to their rivals.

Chelsea would likely have to spend an extortionate fee to land Alexis’ signature this summer but landing a top player from the rival club would shatter Arsenal’s hopes, whilst also showing both Manchester sides the Blues mean business in the transfer market.

Manchester United and Manchester City are both set to spend heavily this summer, which could hand Chelsea problems luring their top-targets as both sides could rival the Blues in the market for the player or drive the price-tags up with deals of their own, so landing a superstar like Alexis would be huge.

Alexis’ versatility would be the perfect addition to Manchester United’s ranks, as he’s capable of playing as a central striker or as a supporting member of the attacking line- both of which are areas Chelsea are keen to improve on this summer.

It would send a major dent to London rivals Arsenal, who have not sanctioned a sale to a Premier League rival since Robin Van Persie’s move to United in 2012, and would likely cause mutiny in the Gunners camp- which the Blues would certainly enjoy watching.