Chelsea transfer news: Antonio Conte keeping tabs on Lyon defender Mouctar Diakhaby after Antonio Rudiger’s slow start
The 20-year-old centre-back is regarded as one of the brightest prospects in Ligue as the Blues look to bring him to Stamford Bridge
CHELSEA are reportedly keeping tabs on Lyon centre-back Mouctar Diakhaby as Antonio Rudiger continues to struggle at Stamford Bridge.
The 20-year-old is regarded as one of the brightest prospects in Ligue 1, with Antonio Conte impressed by the French youth international.
According to Italian news outlet CalcioMercato, the Blues are believed to be unhappy with Rudiger following his £29million switch from Roma.
The German international was heavily criticised following his performance in the recent 3-0 defeat away to his former club in the Champions League.
This has led the West London side to eye up a potential move for Diakhaby, as they look to recruit yet another rising star from the French top-flight.
Back in January 2014, Chelsea successfully lured away Kurt Zouma from St-Etienne, but injuries cost him a lengthy run in the side, and he is now on loan at Stoke.
Diakhaby has thrived under manager Bruno Genesio at the Groupama Stadium since making his first team debut last September.
He has since made 40 appearances in all competitions - featuring six times this season - scoring once.
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And it's not only Chelsea that are vying for his signature, but Premier League rivals Manchester City.
SunSport reported last month that Pep Guardiola was monitoring his progress, sending Txiki Begiristain and coach Mikel Arteta to watch him in action against Everton in the Europa League.
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The Citizens are keen on signing a centre-half as Vincent Kompany continues to be plagues by injury setbacks, while they also failed to bring Jonny Evans to the Etihad.
Lyon will not sell their young prodigy on the cheap, as they have tied down Diakhaby to a contract until 2022.
