Chelsea's massive €50m Bonucci bid fails to meet Juventus's asking price — report

According to Italian sports channel RAI Sport (via Inside Futbol), Chelsea had a €50m transfer bid for Leonardo Bonucci rejected by his current club Juventus. Earlier reports by the Italian media claimed that Juve had set the center back's price tag at €60m, with the club less than inclined to let go of their prized asset.

Bonucci had a memorable performance against Belgium last Monday in the Euros, the highlight being a marvellous long-range pass that set up Italy's first goal of the match. Beyond just that performance, the 29-year-old has been an integral part of Juve's squad since his arrival in 2010 from Bari, with Chelsea manager Antonio Conte also playing a crucial role in developing him into one of Italy's best defenders.

Chelsea's interest on Bonucci might be real, considering his current ability and how perfectly he'd fit a need in our squad and also his relationship with Conte at club and national team levels. But given Juventus' financial power and unwillingness to give away one of their key players — as shown by the ever-increasing demands related to Paul Pogba in every transfer window — buying Bonucci wouldn't be easy, if at all feasible.

Nevertheless, Chelsea are still in sore need of a veteran centre back, and one at the top of his form. If there's any hope of convincing Bonucci to join, every effort must be made.