Koulibaly seems to be off the table at this point of time. As much as Chelsea do need a central defender, it is hard to believe the Blues will go ahead and pay £45million for the Senegal international. According to rumors Italian boss is going to focus on central defenders who up until now have flown under the radar, meaning that their price tag will be considerably lower than that of Koulibaly. It`s fine to be honest as long as Terry and Cahill hold their own through the season. With a bit of luck any new addition to the defense could be eased in the group through FA Cup games so by the time Terry gets tired, the newcomer will be well acquainted with Premier League football and ready to step in.

According to the Mirror, Conte’s new number one target is 24-year-old Nikola Maksimovic who is now valued at about £6million. The Serbian international is under contract with Torino until 2020 but would not give up the chance to work with Conte even as a substitute. Maksimovic is represented by Lian Sports who also represent Marko Marin and Danilo Pantic both currently under contract with the Blues.

Looking at Maksimovic’s profile and price, here are the other 4 choices who can complete the top 5 under the radar picks:

1. Jonathan Tah – Bayern Leverkusen – 20-years-old: this youngster has been a constant presence in Germany’s youth teams and just made the step to the big leagues. He made his debut for Low’s side in March and is set to become a team regular. He is somewhat similar to Ivanovic, being able to play on the right flank as well.
2. Daniele Rugani – Juventus – 22-years old: even though he spent most his time playing for Empoli, this youngster is still a Serie A winner with Juventus. He is currently valued at around £11.05million without even making his international debut. Conte would love to work with an Italian defender given the fact that they are known for being the best at what they do.
3. Matija Nastasic – Schalke 04 – 23-years-old: this Serbian defender knows a thing or two about Premier League football. He moved from Fiorentina to Manchester City and was seen as one of the most promising defenders out there. Unfortunately playing the same position as Kompany and Mangala did not help his career. Some say he left to early and that he should return to the UK. Nastasic is represented by Lian Sports as well meaning that the connection to Chelsea would be easy.
4. Niklas Süle – Hoffenheim – 20-years-old: probably one of the safest bets on this list. Even though extremely young, Sule is turning out to be a class defender. He has been a member of every youth group for his country and is expected to become the next Mertesacker. Despite his age, the center-back is now valued at £10.20million.