Chelsea in talks to sign 18-year-old Atalanta defender Honest Ahanor

Chelsea's interest in Ahanor, who primarily plays as a left-back, emerged during negotiations for Marco Palestra in July. Ahanor joined Atalanta from Genoa last summer for an initial €16 million and had a breakthrough season, making 28 Serie A appearances and debuting in the Champions League. His performance also led to a call-up for the Italian national team in May.

This potential signing aligns with Chelsea's strategy of recruiting young talent. Manager Xabi Alonso has been rebuilding the squad, bringing in players like Morgan Rogers, Danny Welbeck, and Jordan Henderson. Ahanor would represent a different type of acquisition, an 18-year-old defender who has already proven himself in top-tier Italian football.

Chelsea must decide whether to meet Atalanta's asking price to bring the teenager to Stamford Bridge.