Chelsea to make opening bid for Southampton striker Pelle

Southampton are bracing themselves for a bid from Chelsea for Graziano Pelle.

Italian sources say incoming Chelsea manager Antonio Conte is keen to sign Pelle.

Conte, who is set to take over at Chelsea next week following Italy’s elimination from Euro 2016, has managed Pelle with the international team.

A formal bid is reportedly expected, with Everton, AC Milan and an unnamed Chinese Super League club also interested.