For weeks, Chelsea had looked like Dean Huijsen's most likely destination. But Real Madrid have swooped and are set to sign the Bournemouth centre-back, leaving the Blues in a difficult position. They are still expected to bring in a defender this summer and incidentally, it appears that they have set their eyes on someone who came through the youth ranks at Santiago Bernabeu.
Players have found it difficult to come through the Real Madrid ranks and then become first-team regulars. Many of them have had to leave in search of playing time and starred elsewhere. One such name seems to have entered Chelsea's radar after missing out on Huijsen.
As reported by Fichajes, Chelsea have already found their new target to strengthen their defence in the summer transfer window. It is Mario Gila of Lazio.
Gila is emerging as the Blues' priority option after failing in the race for Huijsen. The 24-year-old Spaniard's name has gained traction in Chelsea's sporting planning.
Chelsea want former Real Madrid defender after missing out on Dean Huijsen
Serie A have always been home to some of the best defenders in the world. Gila has established himself as a starter in the Italian top flight, after joining Lazio from Real Madrid.
It is believed that Lazio will look for a transfer fee in the region of €30 million to part with Gila. That is not a huge figure for a club like Chelsea.
They need to be certain whether Gila is the right fit or not though. We have seen several highly-rated players make the move from the Serie A to the Premier League in recent years, only to struggle to recapture the form that they showcased in Italy. The difference in styles between the two leagues probably makes the transition a particularly difficult one.