Gianfranco Zola has personally called Chelsea target Nicolo Barella in a bid to seal a deal for the Italian midfielder.

According to reports in Italy from II Mattino, as cited on Sport Witness, Zola has had ‘various phone calls’ with the player.

Barella has emerged as a key transfer target for the Blues as they seek a long-term replacement for Cesc Fabregas.

The Spanish midfielder is expected to complete a move to Monaco this month, but Chelsea want a replacement signed before the deal is completed.

Promising Cagliari midfielder Barella and Zenit’s Leandro Paredes are being touted as potential targets.

Liverpool and a host of Italy’s top teams have been keen to sign Barella in recent months, meaning Chelsea are looking to go on the charm offensive to try and secure his services.

Reports in Italy have claimed that Cagliari are planning for life after Barella, which could suggest the Italian will be the man to replace Fabregas this month.

Would Barella be a good signing for Chelsea?