Three defenders who could be on Chelsea’s shortlist as journalist claims Blues have completely new transfer target

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Chelsea are no doubt keen on strengthening their options at the back amid an ongoing injury crisis at the centre-back position.

Both Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile are set to be out for a prolonged period of time, with fears that the former could miss the majority of the campaign.

The French duo have struggled with injuries ever since they arrived at Stamford Bridge, and this has made them unreliable as genuine starting options.

• READ MORE: What Chelsea have told Marc Guehi as they prepare to make move to sign defender in January

A number of names have cropped up in January as potential targets, with Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi at the top of that list.

However, it has been reported by Matt Law that Chelsea have an unnamed defender on their list of potential signings for the summer, although that could now be accelerated.

The Chelsea Chronicle have listed three names who could fit the bill, including two players the Blues are preparing to do battle with in just a few hours’ time.

Three defenders who could be Chelsea’s mystery target

Dean Huijsen

After joining from Juventus, Dean Huijsen has established himself as one of the most impressive young centre-backs in the Premier League.

The 19-year-old found the net against Tottenham earlier this season, and has become a target of a number of top sides.

Signing Huijsen is no doubt going to be an expensive operation for whoever signs him, although Chelsea will be getting a good look at him tonight when the Blues host Bournemouth.

Illia Zabarnyi

Bournemouth have more than one extremely talented young defender in their ranks, with Illia Zabarnyi also in line to start at Stamford Bridge tonight.

It has been reported that Chelsea are willing to pay £50m to sign Zabarnyi in the past, although the links have not been too strong compared to other options.

Able to play at both left and right centre-back, the Ukraine international would be a great option for the Blues as they search for cover on both sides.

Giorgio Scalvini

Chelsea have not been linked with Giorgio Scalvini really since last January, when they were competing with Manchester United for the signing.

The 21-year-old has only recently returned to the side after suffering a serious injury, and given the injury history they have with their defenders.

However, Scalvini has proven to be an incredible defender during his time at Atalanta, and standing at 6’4 would bring height to a side that is desperately lacking it at the moment.