Chelsea’s hopes of signing Leonardo Bonucci have been handed a boost after the Juventus defender refused to rule out a move to Stamford Bridge.
Bonucci has been earmarked as one of the club’s top transfer targets this summer. New manager Antonio Conte, who takes over when his contract finishes with Italy after Euro 2016, is a huge admirer of the 28-year-old. He was Bonucci’s coach at Juventus between 2011-14 and has coached him for the past two years in the national team.
Juventus have just claimed their fifth Serie A title in a row and insist that none of their key men, including Bonucci, will be sold.
However, Chelsea have not given up hope and, significantly, when asked if he would move to west London to play under Conte, Bonucci said: “I haven’t said anything yet, the question hasn’t been asked so I can’t say either yes or no.”
Chelsea’s need to sign an experienced centre-half is paramount with John Terry set to leave at the end of the season.
His contract expires in the summer and the club have yet to offer the 35-year-old an extension.
