Chelsea target Papy Djilobodji as cut-price alternative to John Stones

Chelsea are bidding to solve their defensive troubles with Senegal defender Papy Djilobodji as a switch from Nantes nears completion.

The Premier League champions have conceded nine goals in four games in accruing four points to sit eight adrift of leaders Manchester City.

Chelsea’s pursuit of John Stones has been repelled by Everton and reports in the French media say a €3m (£2.2) deal for Djilobodji is near completion.