Transfer Rumour Rater: Inter's Ranocchia to Chelsea

Andrea Ranocchia is a very talented footballer, that much is clear.

But the Inter Milan centre-back has been scrutinised consistently over the past couple of seasons for numerous high profile errors and lapses in concentration.

According to the Mirror's John Cross, the 25-year-old has been linked with a move to Chelsea, which could surprise many.

Ranocchia has been struggling to keep hold of his place with the "Nerazzurri" with Juan Jesus and Rolando competing with him for the two remaining spots to complete a defensive trident alongside Hugo Campagnaro.

Extremely competent on the ball, handy pace to cover team-mates at the back and a habit of scoring goals at set pieces, Ranocchia has a great set of skills to make him an excellent defender.

But with erratic mistakes never far from creeping into his game, in a similar manner to David Luiz, it seems unlikely that Chelsea would take a risk on a player who could struggle to adjust to the English league.

With Gary Cahill settling next to John Terry at the back and David Luiz still prone to a high-profile gaff, Ranocchia as a back-up, for the time being, could make sense.

Whether Jose Mourinho would trust Ranocchia to be able to step into the side or put enough pressure on Cahill and Terry for their spots in the side is another thing.

While still young and highly thought of, regardless of the mistakes, Ranocchia would cost a significant amount that would ultimately make this transfer a huge risk for the Blues and poor value.

Chelsea would be better off searching elsewhere if they are in the market for a defender.