Chelsea are Kalidou Kouliably's first choice as he continues to look for a move away from Napoli this season after falling out with club president Aurelio De Laurentis, Goal understands.
Koulibaly's representatives are hopeful that a deal can be concluded before transfer deadline day, but despite the breakdown of relations at Napoli they cannot yet rule out the Senegal defender staying in Serie A.
Napoli have set a hefty price tag of around €45 million for the defender, which no club have matched so far, but he remains Chelsea's top target to improve their backline.
Conte on PL & Serie A differences
Antonio Conte admitted that the prices for players in the transfer market this summer are "crazy", while affirming that he is working daily to secure reinforcements ahead of his side's first Premier League match against West Ham on Monday.
Arsenal had Koulibaly on their shortlist but have agreed personal terms with Valencia defender Shkodran Mustafi, while Everton, who also showed an interest, have signed Ashley Williams from Swansea City.
Chelsea remain keen to sign a centre-back and a striker to their squad before the transfer window shuts on August 31, with Romelu Lukaku being the club's main target for the latter position.
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