Chelsea news: Deadline day approach for Cedric Soares rejected by Southampton

Cedric has established himself as one of the most reliable defenders in the Premier League since his arrival in 2015.

Southampton's Virgil van Dijk was the subject of much transfer interest in the window but the south-coast side refused to drop their stance that none of their star players would exit the club.

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte was eager to bolster his defensive options in the summer with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain wanted to provide competition at right wing-back for Victor Moses.

And it appears, Chelsea were also keen on bringing Cedric to Stamford Bridge.

But Portuguese outlet Record say Southampton snubbed Chelsea's approach which then led to a move for Davide Zappacosta and the Italian defender signed on deadline day for £25million from Torino.

Cedric admits he is flattered by the interest in him but insisted he is not looking to leave Southampton.

“I have a contract with Southampton and I am working every day like I always do. I am professional,” he told the Daily Echo.

“Of course a player likes to know some big teams are interested in us and it’s normal. We work every day.

“I have a contract. I am focussed and what happens will happen.

“I have a contract and I am doing my best here.

“I am always professional and I am happy.”