Leonardo Bonucci: Juventus prepared to let defender join Chelsea in exchange for Cesc Fabregas and £50m transfer fee

Bonucci has emerged as a top target for Antonio Conte and it’s believed Roman Abramovich has given the Italian the go ahead to make a world-record bid for the defender

The Italian is subject to heavy interest from Chelsea (Getty)

Juventus are reportedly prepared to let Leonardo Bonucci join Chelsea next summer – but only in an exchange deal involving Cesc Fabregas, plus a £50m transfer fee.

Bonucci has emerged as a top target for Antonio Conte and it’s believed Roman Abramovich has given the Chelsea manager the green light to make a world-record bid for the defender.

Juventus are playing hard-ball, however, and have set their sights on Fabregas as part of an exchange deal between the two clubs.

According to the Sun, Max Allegri has identified the Chelsea midfielder as the perfect replacement for the ageing Claudio Marchisio.

After much upheaval in recent transfer windows, the Juventus boss is now looking to reconstruct his midfield department and although Fabregas is approaching 30, Allegri believes he still has plenty to offer.

Conte is reluctant to let Fabregas leave but may have to part ways with the Spaniard if he is to land his dream defender.

The Italian will be optimistic he can lure his fellow compatriot to Stamford Bridge having struck up a close relationship with the defender during his time as Juventus and Italy manager.

Indeed, Bonucci has openly praised Conte in the past.

“Conte will be a big success in England, Chelsea are already a very good team, and he will have them challenging both in England and in Europe,” the defender said.

“He likes leaders, he likes big personalities, but he will not stand for players who think they are bigger than him.

“He is the boss, and if you listen to him and show him respect, you will see he is one of the best bosses in the game.”

Because of Juventus’ Champions League commitments any exchange deal would not take place until next summer.