Chelsea have held ‘internal talks’ regarding a move for Celtic defender Josip Juranovic in January, according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth.

The Lowdown: World Cup hero

The Croatian was one of the standout performers for his country at the World Cup, and his performances in Qatar have caught the eye of multiple potential suitors ahead of the winter market.

Unnamed Premier League clubs, along with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, have all been credited with an interest in the right-back, and it sounds like the Blues could well be one of the mystery outfits in pursuit of the 27-year-old.

The Latest: Chelsea hold Juranovic talks

Taking to Twitter, Sheth revealed that the Blues have held internal discussions over the possibility of a deal for Juranovic, though will also continue looking at other candidates in that position.

“Chelsea one of a number of clubs looking at Celtic right-back Josip Juranovic. Told internal talks have taken place at Chelsea to assess right-back options as they wait for the full extent of Reece James' injury.”

The Verdict: James replacement

James has since been ruled out of action for a further four weeks in another massive injury blow, so Juranovic would be the perfect replacement and alternative even after he returns.

The Hoops star has posted nine goal contributions during his time north of the border and is currently averaging 1.6 key passes per league game.

Dubbed a ‘beautiful’ footballer by Josh Bunting, the Zagreb native putting pen to paper at Stamford Bridge would be a massive coup for Graham Potter and Todd Boehly.