Chelsea Transfer News: Latest on Stefan de Vrij and Ben Gibson Rumours

Chelsea are assessing their defensive options as they target Stefan de Vrij of Lazio and Middlesbrough starlet Ben Gibson.

John Cross of the Mirror reported manager Antonio Conte wants to strengthen his defence as he searches for replacements for John Terry and Gary Cahill. Conte targeted De Vrij in the summer but failed to land the Netherlands international, who's been plying his trade in Serie A. The Blues boss will now consider a fresh approach in January.

Lazio informed the west London giants the 24-year-old would remain in Rome, but Chelsea will tempt the Italians in the winter, per Cross. The Biancocelesti want to keep the player and will offer him a new deal to secure his long-term future. Chelsea believe an offer of £15 million could seal a potential transfer.

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Cross also reported Gibson is on the radar at the Bridge, and Conte will continue to monitor the player as "Chelsea aim for a younger squad."

The young Englishman has started all four of his side's Premier League outings this term, according to WhoScored.com, and is expected to have a breakout season in the north-east.

Terry and Cahill are ageing fast, and Conte needs to add a spring into the step of his defensive unit.

Chelsea struggled against Liverpool as David Luiz returned to the Blues back four, and the 2-1 defeat will leave the Italian boss looking toward future changes.

De Vrij has witnessed his stock consistently rise in recent years, and WhoScored.com highlighted the Dutchman's past achievements:

Here is the centre-back in action:

Chelsea lost their first match of the Premier League on Friday, as Liverpool deconstructed a slow and ponderous Blues defence, despite the inclusion of new signing Luiz.

However, De Vrij and Gibson would struggle to be primary defenders next to Luiz, but they would improve Conte's stock options.

Gibson is an exciting talent and a natural replacement for Cahill as Chelsea revamp their squad in the next 12 months.

Terry's leadership will be impossible to replace like for like, but Conte must find a rock who can anchor the defence as Luiz travels with the ball.

The Brazilian is a liability at times and always has a mistake in his game, but he is a better player when paired with a steady and strong central defender.