Chelsea news: Juventus defender Alex Sandro still a top target

CHELSEA have not ruled out signing Juventus defender Alex Sandro, despite the left-back edging closer to a contract extension at the Allianz Stadium.

Antonio ConteGETTY

Alex Sandro remains a top target for Antonio Conte

Antonio Conte made Sandro a top target in the summer but was unsuccessful in his attempts to draw him to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea made a number of bids for the 26-year-old, but the Italian champions knocked back every offer as they desperately tried to keep hold of their key player.

It is reported the former Porto defender is on the verge of penning an extension with Juventus until 2022, with an estimated earning of around £4.5million.

But that does not mean a move to London is off the cards just yet.

Alex Sandro’s INCREDIBLE tackles and assists for Juventus

Corriere dello SportCorriere dello Sport

Corriere dello Sport are reporting that Chelsea are still in pursuit of Alex Sandro

Italian publication Corriere dello Sport are reporting that the Premier League champions are persistent in their pursuit of the Brazilian and are preparing to table an offer when the transfer window reopens in January.

But Conte will be hopeful the contract negotiations stall for the next two months so that he can hijack the deal.

However, it could cost Chelsea in excess of the £73m which they offered in the summer.

Alex SandroGETTY

Alex Sandro is close to signing a contract extension with Juventus

As a contingency, it has recently emerged that the Italian is taking a look at Tottenham’s Danny Rose, but he faces fierce competition from Manchester United.

The pull of working for Jose Mourinho at United puts the Red Devils in the driving seat for his signature, meaning Conte is likely to table a fresh bid for Sandro.

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