Chelsea prepare offer for Lazio defender De Vrij

Chelsea have reportedly emerged as the frontrunners to land Netherlands international defender Stefan de Vrij, according to Il Tempo (via The Sun).

The Premier League side, who currently sit top of the English top-flight standings having won their last 12 league outings in a row, have been linked with luring the Lazio wantaway star to Stamford Bridge during the forthcoming January transfer window.

The 24-year-old, who has 30 international caps for his country, has scored one goal in 11 league appearances for the Serie A outfit so far this season.

De Vrij, who began his career in his homeland with Eredivisie club Feyenoord, has reportedly told the Italian side that he is ready to leave the Stadio Olimpico.

However, the report suggests Antonio Conte’s Blues will face competition from former Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti, who is now in charge of Bundesliga giants FC Bayern Munich, as they are also after the Dutchman’s signature.