Jump directly to the content
The new JT

Chelsea transfer news: Antonio Conte targets English defensive duo as he searches for long-term John Terry replacement

Homegrown pair Ben Gibson from Middlesbrough and Burnley's Michael Keane both on Italian's radar

Chelsea have targeted Michael Keane and Ben Gibson as a possible John Terry replacement

Sponsored by

ANTONIO CONTE has targeted Middlesbrough's Ben Gibson and Burnley's Michael Keane as he hopes to discover the new John Terry, according to reports.

The Chelsea manager wants to maintain the English core of the club's defence and has set in motion a scouting drive to find the best homegrown candidates as captain JT nears retirement.

Burnley defender Michael Keane has emerged as a target for Antonio Conte
6
Burnley defender Michael Keane has emerged as a target for Antonio ConteCredit: Getty Images
Michael Keane is seen as a prime target for Chelsea as he is homegrown
6
Michael Keane is seen as a prime target for Chelsea as he is homegrownCredit: Getty Images
Ben Gibson is also seen as a top target to replace John Terry at Chelsea
6
Ben Gibson is also seen as a top target to replace John Terry at ChelseaCredit: Getty Images
Ben Gibson makes a last ditch challenge on West Brom striker Salomon Rondon
6
Ben Gibson makes a last ditch challenge on West Brom striker Salomon RondonCredit: Reuters

As Premier League regulations demand clubs must select at least eight homegrown players for their 25-man squads, Gibson and Keane are seen as perfect targets, reports the .

Both have experience in England's youth setup and are edging towards Sam Allardyce's senior squad.

Chelsea completed a shock £30million deal for ex-Stamford Bridge defender David Luiz, 29, on deadline day.

Related Stories

Chelsea star Oscar reveals his new position under Antonio Conte and admits he has his eyes on domestic treble
Reborn

Chelsea star Oscar reveals his new position under Antonio Conte and admits he has his eyes on domestic treble

'Next John Terry' Andreas Christensen refuses to rule out permanent Chelsea exit next summer
dane away

'Next John Terry' Andreas Christensen refuses to rule out permanent Chelsea exit next summer

Chelsea star Willian posts emotional message for his mother fighting against cancer after Brazil game
Mum, you're a warrior

Chelsea star Willian posts emotional message for his mother fighting against cancer after Brazil game

Leicester launched offer for Chelsea's Nathaniel Chalobah but Antonio Conte blocked the move
Foxes hunt fails

Leicester launched offer for Chelsea's Nathaniel Chalobah but Antonio Conte blocked the move

But the Brazilian is not seen as a long-term solution and with Terry, 35, and Gary Cahill, 30, in their twilight years, Conte is seeking young blood.

Meanwhile, Chelsea want outcast goalkeeper coach Christophe Lollichon to delay any plans he has of leaving the club.

The Frenchman was relieved of first-team duties by Conte and replaced by Gianluca Spinelli.

Antonio Conte is looking to the future to find the next John Terry
6
Antonio Conte is looking to the future to find the next John TerryCredit: Reuters
The Chelsea legend is nearing the end of his career at Stamford Bridge
6
The Chelsea legend is nearing the end of his career at Stamford BridgeCredit: Reuters

Lollichon's fractious relationship with Thibaut Courtois was said to be the cause of the Belgian's poor form last season.

Courtois, 24, almost left Chelsea in a £65m move in the summer but no buyer was found to meet his price tag.

But he may still leave next summer and the Blues want Lollichon to stay until Courtois' future is certain.

Topics
YOU MIGHT LIKE
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU
MORE FOR YOU