Chelsea’s long-standing interest in Alex Sandro has been given a huge boost by the fact the left-back wants to quit Juventus.

Head coach Antonio Conte made Sandro one of his top summer targets, but, having been confident of landing the Brazilian, Chelsea walked away from a deal when Juve refused to drop their £80million asking price.

But Juve may now be forced to sell Sandro for around £50m after the 26-year-old made it clear to the club that he is unhappy.

Sandro refused to try to force through a move to Stamford Bridge during the summer, but that may be different if the Blues make a new bid in January.

Whether or not Juve will sell in January, rather than next summer, may depend on whether or not they can line up a replacement.