The Everton midfielder nearly joined the Blues in the summer, but an injury forced him to reconsider and the deal was scuppered at the 11th hour.

Christian Benteke is one of the better options to boost Conte's strike force, though it remains to be seen whether Crystal Palace will be reluctant to sell because of their relegation battle or eager to cash in to rejuvenate the rest of their squad.

Red Star hit man Richmond Boakye is seen as an alternative as the champions look to succeed in the transfer market without recently departed technical director Michael Emenalo.