Chelsea transfer news: Cedric Soares emerges as THIRD Southampton defender on Blues’ summer wishlist
Antonio Conte is also hunting Virgil van Dijk and seeks a return for Ryan Bertrand as he looks to bolster squad ahead of Champions League football
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CHELSEA are reportedly planning on raiding Southampton for THREE defenders this summer - with Cedric Soares their latest target.
Virgil van Dijk and Ryan Bertrand make up the list of Saints stars wanted at Stamford Bridge.
According to the , Chelsea are keen on drafting in Soares to increase their squad in preparation for Champions League football next season.
While former Blues ace Bertrand is wanted as healthy competition for Marcos Alonso at left-back, Soares would keep Victor Moses on his toes on the opposite flank.
The Portuguese, 25, has caught the eye since joining Southampton from Sporting Lisbon for £4.7million in 2015.
Barcelona are also considering making a bid for the Saints star.
But Soares' St Mary's contract does not expire until 2020, meaning Southampton can demand a hefty fee for the Portugal international.
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Chelsea boss Antonio Conte's 3-4-3 formation has worked wonders this season.
In his favoured system, Alonso and Moses have consistently started as wing-backs.
Claude Puel will have no plans on selling all three of his back-four, though Chelsea are determined to poach at least one.
Conte is also keen on bringing home defender Andreas Christensen from Borussia Monchengladbach.
The Dane has spent the past two seasons on loan at the German club, though Monchengladbach chief Max Eberl insists: "We are still fighting for Andreas Christensen.
"I have not given up hope."