Leonardo Bonucci in stands as Chelsea speculation grows

Leonardo Bonucci was in the stands for the Champions League clash between Porto and Juventus while rumours linking him with Chelsea re-emerge.

Leonardo Bonucci is once again being strongly linked with a move to Chelsea. The defender has recently fallen out with Juventus boss, Massimiliano Allegri, and he took a seat in the stands for the Italians’ Champions League match against Porto.

The Independent reports that the Blues are preparing for a battle with Manchester City for Bonucci’s signature.

"Chelsea and Manchester City are both ready to test Leonardo Bonucci’s relationship with Juventus this summer by bidding for the centre-back regarded by many to be the world’s best."

Chelsea were heavily linked with the experienced defender over the summer. With Antonio Conte taking the hot seat, it was believed that Bonucci would rejoin the manager whom he has played under for both Juventus and Italy.

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However, a deal did not materialise at the time with the player keen to stay on with the Italian giants. A recent falling out, though, has changed the situation.

Allegri and Bonucci’s relationship has reportedly deteriorated and this was reflected in his omission on Wednesday night. Bonucci was sat up in the stands for the Round of 16 clash and, well, he looked miserable.

If that is not a naughty stool, then I don’t know what is.

With City apparently in the race, Chelsea may not be as keen on Bonucci this time out. Since the summer, they have bought David Luiz. Moreover, he has returned in a blaze of glory, banishing all memories of his defensive skills during his first Blues stint.

Meanwhile, Nathan Ake has been recalled from his loan spell after heavily impressing. The Dutchman looks ripe for first team football and he seems to be in Antonio Conte’s plans moving forward.

With Cesar Azpilicueta doing a fine job and Kurt Zouma back from injury, there is not much need for Bonucci anymore. Chelsea have enough internal options at the centre-back slot.

The one thing they could do with is another bench-warming defender. Bonucci is unlikely to be happy with that role, though.

With Gary Cahill likely stay on, the elder statesman job is also taken. Bearing all this in mind, Chelsea will probably only move for him should the price be incredibly attractive. His relationship with Allegri gives reason to believe that it could be, but the competition from City counters this.

How much would you pay for Leonardo Bonucci? Let us know in the comments below!