Chelsea identify top center back target for January, will have to beat out Bayern Munich for young Hoffenheim defender - report

Despite a strong defence and generally excellent form since the change in tactics to the 3-4-3, Chelsea will probably still be looking to add options to the squad in the transfer window, especially as several veterans could be on their way out. Along these lines, according to ESPN's sources, Chelsea are keen on bringing in Hoffenheim centre back Niklas Süle in January.

Chelsea had been linked with Süle before. His agent, Karlheinz Forster confirmed an approach from the Blues last summer and told German tabloid Bild that the big and tall 21-year-old defender remained part of Chelsea's plans for next summer as well.  But, motivated by Conte's supposed wish for a new defender, Chelsea could bring those plans forward by a few months.

While Chelsea have been reportedly interested in defenders such as Roma's Antonio Rudiger, Middlesbrough's Ben Gibson and Burnley's Michael Keane, Süle would be the priority target for the position, according to the report. The German international has had plenty of success playing as the right-most centre back of Hoffenheim's three-man backline in the 3-1-4-2 tactics employed by their 29-year-old manager Julian Nagelsmann.

However, Chelsea aren't alone in the chase for Süle's services. German juggernauts Bayern Munich, known for their policy of adding some of the best players from their Bundesliga rivals to their own squad are also interested.

As well as the current starting lineup is working for Chelsea, there will come a time when we will need to change, upgrade, or simply add to our available options in the squad.  A young talent such as Niklas Süle would be an excellent signing.