Chelsea already reportedly have their eyes on a defensive signing, and it might involve denying rivals Arsenal a transfer target.
The Blues have built their success on a solid defence this season, Thomas Tuchel making his side ultra-sound at the back as he led them to a Champions League title.
And many of the defenders who helped them achieve that defensive solidarity are likely to stick around, including veteran Thiago Silva who looks set for a new contract.
Though, there will be one departure in the form of Fikayo Tomori, who joined AC Milan on loan during the January transfer window, just days before Tuchel's arrival. Milan have an option to buy Tomori at the end of the loan deal, and it's understood they fully intend on taking up that option.
And that means Chelsea have a void to fill as far as a talented young defender goes, and that could see them turn to Bayer Leverkusen centre-back Edmond Tapsoba.
Tapsoba has already been heavily linked with Arsenal, who are looking to replace David Luiz this summer, but Marina Granovskaia might just have plans of her own.
SportsBild report the Blues, as well as Manchester United, are interested in scuppering the Gunners' potential deal for Tapsoba, who was excellent for Leverkusen last season as they finished sixth in Bundesliga.
Though, the 22-year-old, who made 39 appearances in all competitions last term, will not come cheap for any of the potential suitors.
That's because Tapsoba has a long-term contract until 2026 at Leverkusen and is valued at around £60million with the German club seeing him as a vital piece of their plans going forward.
The club's sports director Simon Rolfes recently said: "Edmond should also play a very important role for us next season."
Though, there is some good news in the form of that price tag, because Manchester United are more than likely to look elsewhere given that amount of money this summer.
