Chelsea are reportedly inching closer towards the signing of the Toulouse central defender Issa Diop. Despite a very comprehensive performance by his back line, Antonio Conte is believed to be in the search of a central defender and Diop could be his answer to all the questions that have been asked in this season regarding their depth.
Diop started his career at the French Club and his growth has been somewhere very fruitful for the French club. But with his current performances, a number of clubs have enquired about the player’s availability and it would be very difficult for the French club to tie him at the club. Conte had to re-sign David Luiz from Paris Saint-Germain which proved to be a very wise decision. But Chelsea are scheduled to compete in four competitions next season and adequate backup in the form of defensive reinforcement would be the priority for Conte.
At a towering six feet four inches, Diop possesses an impeccable aerial ability complementing it with superior vision. A discussion is going between the two clubs regarding his transfer and a fee of £15m is being negotiated. Chelsea captain John Terry is set to bid adieu to his long-term club and Conte needs to shore up his defence.
Diop has featured in 31 games for the French club in this season could be a very viable option in the back line. Although given his tender age he could take a bit of time in settling down and hence would likely be a long-term investment from their point of view. 
The West London club has been declared the Premier League champions of this season and Conte needs to assure that they start the defence of their title in the same fashion. Diop has had a stellar season so far scoring two goals and assisting further two this term.
Chelsea will also have Andreas Christensen joining after this season from his loan spell at Borussia Monchengladbach and he alongside Diop could offer serious competition to the likes of Gary Cahill and David Luiz. Chelsea already have French defender Kurt Zouma and it seems Conte is trying to build a young defensive contingent at the Stamford Bridge. However, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City are also reportedly monitoring his situation and any kind of delay in negotiations could backfire for them. Diop could be a very exciting signing as far as Conte’s strategy is concerned and it seems they already have an agreement in place for the youngster.
