Chelsea news: Abramovich ready to sign Ciro Immobile from Lazio to keep Antonio Conte

Chelsea have endured a mixed start to the new season, struggling to replicate their swashbuckling form of last term.

Conte’s future at Stamford Bridge has been plunged into uncertainty, with reports suggesting Carlo Ancelotti could return to take over.

But The Sun say Chelsea have a plan to ensure Conte stays - and it involves signing one of his chief transfer targets.

The Blues boss is a huge admirer of Lazio’s Immobile, who he managed during his time as Italy manager. 

Back in 2016, Immobile’s reputation seemed to be in tatters after scoring just 10 goals for Borussia Dortmund.

But 43 goals in 54 games has seen him re-establish himself as one of Italian football’s deadliest strikers.

The Sun say, as a result, Roman Abramovich wants to land the 27-year-old.

And that is believed to be a move that would help keep Conte both happy and at the club. 

Chelsea chiefs also think he could strike up the perfect partnership with Alvaro Morata, 

Lazio are supposedly willing to accept offers of around £53million, despite snubbing £62m from an unnamed Chinese Super League side in the summer.

Chelsea, however, feel a lower transfer fee coupled with players in exchange could see them strike a deal.

Meanwhile, Immobile expressed his delight with Lazio life after their 3-0 win over Cagliari last weekend.

“It was important to keep the winning run going and continue to amaze people. It’s truly exceptional what we’ve achieved so far. I thank the fans, it’s all wonderful,” Immobile told Mediaset Premium.

“We could’ve scored more goals, but this team just needs to stay concentrated, because we’ve got the quality and the staff to do great things.

“It’s our sixth consecutive victory, we don’t want to stop now.”