Chelsea are ready to launch a £25 million bid for Burnley defender Michael Keane as manager Antonio Conte seeks to address his side's defensive frailties. The Premier League champions have made a preliminary enquiry for the 23-year-old, who has been a standout performer for the Clarets this season.
Burnley rejected several offers from Leicester City in the summer, with the Foxes' final bid of £15 million falling short. However, Chelsea are confident they can succeed where Leicester failed, with Keane seen as a long-term replacement for club captain John Terry, who is currently injured and out of contract at the end of the season.
Keane, who began his career at Manchester United before joining Burnley for £2 million in January 2015, has two years remaining on his current deal. Burnley are expected to offer him an improved contract in an attempt to fend off interest, but a £25 million bid may prove difficult to reject.
The England Under-21 international helped Burnley secure promotion back to the Premier League last season and has continued to impress in the top flight. Chelsea's interest comes after they re-signed David Luiz on transfer deadline day, but defensive issues persist, with the team conceding three goals in a defeat to Arsenal at the weekend.
