Chelsea in talks to sign Atalanta defender Ahanor

Chelsea are engaged in talks to sign Atalanta defender Ahanor, BBC Sport has been told. The 18‑year‑old Italian left‑back, who joined Atalanta from Genoa last summer for a reported fee of €16 million plus €4 million in add‑ons, has made 28 Serie A appearances for the Bergamo side and debuted in the Champions League during a 2‑1 win over Club Brugge in September. Atalanta have indicated they would consider selling the player if their €40 million (£34.3 million) valuation is met. Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has been reshaping the squad since his July appointment at Stamford Bridge, having already secured England midfielder Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa for a reported £117 million and added Premier League veterans Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson. The Blues will host Brighton at home on Sunday, having beaten Fulham 3‑2 in their opening league fixture on Monday.