Leonardo Bonucci would be a ‘brilliant’ signing for Chelsea, Michael Ballack has told talkSPORT.

Blues boss Antonio Conte is set to be given major funds to overhaul his squad and turn the club back into Premier League title and Champions League contenders.

According to reports, 29-year-old Bonucci is Conte’s top target and Roman Abramovich is ready to sanction a £50million-plus move for the Juventus defender in January.

“If it is possible to sign such a great player with good experience, it would be brilliant for Chelsea,” said Ballack, a Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup winner during a four-year spell at Chelsea.

Ballack, speaking on the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast, went on to discuss Chelsea’s title hopes under Conte.

The Italian, appointed as Jose Mourinho’s permanent replacement in the summer, has endured a mixed start to his tenure.

Conte has won four and lost two of his first seven Premier League games at the helm, and Chelsea currently sit five points behind leaders Manchester City.

Ballack said: “You see how much money other teams spend – everyone wants to win the league – and I know from the past how difficult it is to win the Premier League.

“Chelsea is a team which had a great time a few years ago and they’re looking for great success.

“The place they finished last year was not enough for them and they have different targets, but they have to deliver. There has to be a change with the new coach in terms of playing, the style of play and delivering results, so hopefully it’s a better season for them now.”