Football Express News understands that Chelsea have submitted a £40m bid for Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane.
The French centre-back has struggled for game time this season, having struggled to force his way past both Sergio Ramos and Pepe in Carlo Ancelotti’s starting eleven.
Spanish defender Ramos signed a new deal earlier this season, whilst Ancelotti was debating on who to sell this summer out of Portuguese defender Pepe and Varane.
And, it is now understood that the European champions have offered Pepe a new two-year deal, prompting Chelsea to formally submit a bid of £40m.
The Frenchman is expected to sign for Chelsea, having had links with boss Jose Mourinho in the past.
Although, Manchester United and Manchester City will both attempt their own bids as they seek to improve their defensive options.