Chelsea have allegedly identified Atletico Madrid defender Nahuel Molina as a potential January transfer target.

The Blues have already been proactive at the midway point of the campaign, signing David Datro Fofana from Molde and having deals in place for Andrey Santos and Benoit Badiashile.

Numerous reports are also suggesting that Enzo Fernandez is likely to depart Benfica for Stamford Bridge over the coming days in a deal worth in excess of €120m.

However, given the injury issues regarding Reece James, the West Londoners are allegedly keen to bring in a new option at right-back before the end of the month.

Although Cesar Azpilicueta is currently deputising in the position, the Spaniard is now 33 years of age and no longer provides the same qualities as James.

According to journalist Simon Phillips, consideration is now being given to trying to sign World Cup winner Molina.

Alongside Argentine compatriot Fernandez, Molina has just played an important role in helping his nation lift the Jules Rimet trophy for the first time since 1986.

Molina made six starts and one substitute outing in Qatar, contributing one goal and one assist as he proved to be a regular at full-back and wing-back.

The 24-year-old will return to Atletico expecting to retain his spot in the team after making 17 appearances in La Liga and the Champions League this season.

Nevertheless, while Molina is a regular under countryman Diego Simeone, change is expected at Wanda Metropolitano given their early exit from the Champions League.

However, Atletico are unlikely to consider the sale of Molina unless Chelsea are willing to pay over the odds for a player who only linked up with the Spanish giants last year.

Molina possesses a contract until 2027 after departing Udinese for Colchoneros for a fee which would reach €15m if all add-ons are activated.

The report adds that Chelsea are continuing to monitoring Benjamin Pavard's situation at Bayern Munich, the Frenchman recently hinting that he would prefer a fresh challenge over extending his terms at the Allianz Arena past 2024. body check tags ::