Chelsea could reportedly make a move for Atletico Madrid centre-back Jose Gimenez during the January transfer window.
The 27-year-old has been with the Red and Whites since 2013, representing the club on 263 occasions in all competitions, contributing 10 goals and nine assists in the process.
Gimenez has again been an important player for Diego Simeone's side this season despite some fitness problems, making 14 appearances in all competitions.
The Uruguay international still has another three years left to run on his contract, meanwhile, having penned an extension with the capital giants in August 2021.
Atletico's failure to qualify for the knockout round of the Champions League, or the Europa League, is believed to have led to severe financial difficulties at Wanda Metropolitano.
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Joao Felix is believed to be available for transfer in January in order to bring in funds, while according to Italian journalist Rudy Galetti, Gimenez could also be allowed to leave for the right price.
Galetti claims that Chelsea are keeping a close eye on the situation and are ready to 'take advantage', should it become clear that the Uruguayan will be available in a cut-price deal.
Atletico are without a victory in their last five matches in all competitions, with the run including a 1-0 defeat at Mallorca in La Liga on Wednesday, which has left them down in sixth position in the table.
Gimenez was suspended for the contest with Mallorca, but he is back available for Saturday's Copa del Rey game with Almazan, which will be the team's final fixture before the break for the World Cup.
The South American has enjoyed plenty of success during his time at Atletico, winning two La Liga titles, the Spanish Super Cup, the Europa League and the UEFA Super Cup, in addition to reaching two Champions League finals.
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Chelsea boss Graham Potter is said to be determined to bring another centre-back to the club in January due to the team's defensive issues this term.
Wesley Fofana and Kalidou Koulibaly were signed over the summer, but the former has been out since the start of October with a knee injury, while the latter is yet to fully settle following his arrival from Napoli.
Chelsea conceded another two goals against Manchester City in the EFL Cup on Wednesday, while they shipped four in their recent league defeat at Brighton & Hove Albion.
The Blues, who are back in Premier League action against Newcastle United on Saturday, are also allegedly in a strong position when it comes to the potential signing of Palmeiras teenager Endrick.
