Chelsea eyeing transfer for Lazio defender Francesco Acerbi, 32, as Lampard eyes experience at back

CHELSEA are reportedly on the verge of entering a bidding war with Inter Milan for Lazio defender Francesco Acerbi.

The 32-year-old centre-back has been a key man for Simeone Inzaghi’s surprise Serie A title challengers.

They were just a point behind leaders and reigning champions Juventus before the coronavirus outbreak halted the season.

Now claim his performances have caught the eye of Blues boss Frank Lampard.

However, the Premier League outfit will face huge competition for his signature.

And it will mainly come from their former manager Antonio Conte’s Inter.

Veteran Acerbi still has three years left on his deal at Lazio.

But a recent change of agents has caused speculation over his future.

He has enlisted the help of Federico Pastorello, who also represents Inter star Romelu Lukaku.

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Lampard desperately wants to bolster his backline and has been linked with a host of players of recent weeks as he casts his net high and wide in search of reinforcements.

Acerbi has made 24 appearances for Lazio so far this campaign, scoring twice.

And despite his age, it seems the Blues believe he could still make a positive impact over the next couple of years as Lampard looks to restore the Stamford Bridge side back into title contention.