Chelsea transfer rumour: Blues manager Antonio Conte weighing in bid for Liverpool target Jonas Hector

Chelsea are considering a move in signing FC Koln defender Jonas Hector in the summer transfer window. The Blues manager Antonio Conte is looking to bolster his side's defence for the new season.

According to The Mirror, the former Juventus and Italy coach has identified the German international as the player to strengthen his left-back position. He allowed Baba Rahman to join Schalke on loan and was left with Cesar Azpilicueta as the only recognised left-back in the squad.

In addition to this, Chelsea youngster Ola Aina is the other option available in the left-back position. The Spain international is a versatile player, who can play on either side of the back four. However, Azpilicueta and Aina are predominantly right footed players.

Conte's desire to bring Hector to Stamford Bridge has seen Chelsea weigh in a bid to secure his services. The Bundesliga defender extended his contract on 13 August and his new deal with his current employers runs down in 2021. He expressed his delight after extending his contract.

"I feel totally happy to be a part of this team and am comfortable here at FC. Everything fits for me here so the contract extension was a logical step," Hector told the German club's official website.

Despite the defender signing a new deal, the west London club are still looking at the option of signing him and have asked about the player. Hector, who scored the winning penalty for Germany in the quarter-final clash against Italy at the Euros during a shootout, is valued at around £20m ($25.8m).

Liverpool are also in the race for the Koln star's signature as Jurgen Klopp looks to strengthen his side's left-back. Alberto Moreno is the player available at Anfield in that position and he has been heavily criticised for his display.

It should be seen whether Koln will allow Hector to leave the club in the current transfer window. Should they allow, Chelsea and Liverpool are likely to go head-to-head for his signature.