Chelsea Transfer News: Antonio Candreva Fee Revealed Amid Latest Blues Rumours

Chelsea are reportedly preparing to "accelerate" their pursuit of Lazio midfielder Antonio Candreva, but they will need to meet the club's asking price of "at least €25 million." 

That's according to Italian newspaper Il Tempo (h/t Football Italia), which noted that Lazio president Claudio Lotito will not allow the Blues to enter talks with the player until his demand is met.

Candreva has been selected by incoming Chelsea manager Antonio Conte for his Italy squad in the European Championship.

The winger was a highlight in an otherwise fairly mediocre season for Lazio, who finished eighth in Serie A, bagging 12 goals and five assists in all competitions.

Here are some of his best moments:

The Blues potentially have room for another wide man in the squad after Pedro failed to replicate the same form he managed with Barcelona.

As Opta Paolo revealed, the 29-year-old is a regular contributor of goals, and he'd also give Diego Costa plenty to feed off with his frequent deliveries into the box:

His exceptional technique and goal threat from outside the area further make him a viable candidate to take up that position, and he has also featured centrally or on the left for Lazio when necessary.

He evidently has Conte's confidence given his inclusion in the squad for the Euros, and the manager will naturally be familiar with the attributes he could bring to Stamford Bridge.

Candreva's position isn't likely to be a real priority for the Blues this summer—a long-term replacement for John Terry, a central midfielder to share Nemanja Matic and Cesc Fabregas' workload and a striker to do the same for Costa should be at the top of his to-do list.

With that being the case, his price tag could be a sticking point—the Blues' funds are needed more elsewhere, not to mention at his age there is little potential for resale value.

He could make a useful acquisition for the Blues, but Lazio may be successful in warding off Chelsea's interest if they stick to their guns.