Chelsea ‘eyeing up Atletico Madrid star Jose Gimenez’ ahead of 2021 transfer with Thiago Silva set to extend contract

CHELSEA are reportedly eyeing up a move for Atletico Madrid star Jose Gimenez.

The Premier League club have lined up a deal for the highly-rated defender and are also keen on agreeing a new contract with Thiago Silva.

The Blues have identified Uruguay defender Gimenez as a key target according to the Here We Go Podcast.

Chelsea have tightened up their defence this season but the club are still looking to strengthen and see the 25-year-old as a long-term prospect.

Gimenez made 27 appearances last season for Atletico and his form has attracted the interest of Chelsea.

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But the Blues are also focused on keeping Thiago Silva at the club after a promising start following his summer move.

The 36-year-old has impressed for Chelsea since joining from PSG and helped improve their defensive record.

Silva signed a one-year deal at Stamford Bridge but according to Tuttomercarto the club are already in discussions to agree a new contract.

The Brazilian defender has featured nine times under Frank Lampard and has yet to lose in a Chelsea shirt.

Joe Cole praised Silva's contribution during BT Sport's coverage of Chelsea's win in Rennes.

Cole said: "He has been one of the great defenders of our generation, but at 36 you worry.

"He needed time to get into it and now he looks like a Rolls-Royce and one of the best centre-halves in the league."