Conte could be disappointed in desire for five more signings

Ian Watson
Antonio Conte: Manager typically passionate on the sideline

Antonio Conte: Still keen to strengthen his squad

Antonio Conte has told Roman Abramovich that Chelsea need another five new signings to challenge next season, according to reports.

Former Italy manager Conte was tipped to overhaul the Blues squad this summer, but so far the club have only signed Michy Batshuayi and N’Golo Kante.

And according to the Daily Mirror, the 46-year-old stressed the need for further recruits in a meeting with Abramovich, director Marina Granovskaia and technical director Michael Emenalo.

The report states that a striker and centre-back remain a priority, with Chelsea understood to have seen two bids turned down for Real Madrid forward Alvaro Morata, while the Londoners continue to keep tabs on Everton’s Romelu Lukaku.

Juventus’ Leonardo Bonucci, Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly and Roma’s Kostas Manolas have all been eyed to bolster Conte’s options in the centre of defense, while Radja Nainggolan is still wanted in midfield.

However, there are doubts that Conte will be afforded the funds to make so many signings, despite his concerns that the club are being left behind by the likes of Manchester United and Manchester City.