Chelsea have put an offer of €40m on the table to tempt Napoli into selling defender Kalidou Koulibaly, according to Italian broadcaster Sportitalia.
Incoming Chelsea manager Antonio Conte is a big fan of the consistent centre-back and wants the Blues to make sure he is added to the ranks at Stamford Bridge.
Napoli though have been playing hardball, hoping to keep hold of the centre-back.
But their resolve is set to be fiercely tested by Chelsea's latest bid, which has come in at a substantial €40m.
The Blues have put on the plate the money they were prepared to use to sign Radja Nainggolan from Roma and are hoping it breaks Napoli's resolve.
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Koulibaly helped Napoli to a finish of second in Serie A last season, meaning Champions League football for the club next season.
The defender has been unhappy with his salary at the southern Italian club and has spoken publicly about his desire for an increase.
Napoli were furious over the defender's comments, but have not yet softened their stance over a sale.
