The Evening Standard ran a story back during the January transfer window reporting that Chelsea were looking at centre back options.
They named Hellas Verona centre back Marash Kumbulla as one player who they were interested in signing, and had sent scouts to watch.
Kumbulla is a 6ft 1in 19-year old defender who has been capped once for the Albanian senior international side.
He is strong and good on the ball, and reportedly has keen interest from other clubs including Napoli and Inter.
But Chelsea are clearly liking what they have seen from the youngster, having sent scouts to watch him again in last night’s match between Lazio and Hellas Verona.
Tonight there was a #Chelsea’s scout in Roma to observe Marash #Kumbulla (2000) during Lazio-Verona. Also #Napoli (offered €20M+bonuses to Verona) and #Inter are really interested in him for July. #transfers #CFC
— Nicolò Schira (@NicoSchira) February 5, 2020
As Nicolo Schira states, Napoli have already made a pre-offer to sign Kumbulla, so any other club who is keen will have to get their intentions across soon.
He has only made 12 league appearances for Verona since 2017, but he seems to have cemented down his place this season and is gaining plaudits.