Chelsea's summer transfer window is starting to heat up as the club push ahead with plans to strengthen several areas of Xabi Alonso's squad.

One player who appears to be edging closer to Stamford Bridge is Atalanta full-back Marco Palestra.

Reports in Italy first suggested Chelsea had opened talks over a deal for the Italy international before negotiations accelerated in recent days.

Palestra enjoyed a brilliant campaign in Serie A on loan at Calgiari and has emerged as one of the most highly-rated young defenders in Italian football.

Chelsea moved quickly after interest from Inter Milan and other European clubs became public.

Several reports have claimed an agreement between Chelsea and Atalanta is now close or already in place, with the deal expected to be worth more than £45 million.

The versatile defender is capable of operating on either flank and is viewed as a player who suits Alonso's tactical system.

His arrival could have consequences elsewhere in Chelsea's squad.

Malo Gusto has been linked with a possible departure amid growing competition for places, with Man City registering their interest.

Chelsea's defensive reshuffle may not stop there.

Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix has also emerged as a serious target, with Fabrizio Romano confirming the Blues have opened talks over a potential move for the French international.

Lacroix is understood to be one of the leading names on Chelsea's shortlist as they assess options at centre-back.

The 26-year-old impressed during Palace's ultimately successful campaign and has attracted interest from a number of Premier League clubs, and reports have placed his valuation at around £40 million to £50 million.

Chelsea are also expected to make decisions on several current defenders before the transfer window closes.

Trevoh Chalobah has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge despite featuring regularly last season, and Wesley Fofana's injury record has also left Chelsea weighing up further reinforcements at the back.

As a result, both Palestra and Lacroix feature prominently in Chelsea's summer plans.

While attention has largely focused on those defensive targets, another name has now emerged from an unexpected source.

Sweden and Leeds star Gabriel Gudmundsson could seal 'dream' move to Chelsea

Indeed, Leeds United defender Gabriel Gudmundsson is the latest player being linked with a move to Stamford Bridge.

The Sweden international, who is at the World Cup with Graham Potter's side, only joined Leeds last year but has quickly established himself as an important figure at Elland Road.

Chelsea's interest comes after Marc Cucurella's departure left Alonso searching for additional options on the left side of defence.

According to Expressen journalist Anel Avdic, Chelsea are interested in signing Gudmundsson this summer.

The report states that discussions surrounding the defender's future are taking place behind the scenes while he remains focused on international duty with Sweden.

Expressen adds that a move to Chelsea would be viewed as a 'dream' transfer for the 27-year-old.

The report claims Chelsea are assessing the possibility of making an offer for the Leeds defender as they continue reshaping the squad, but Leeds are not believed to be actively looking to sell the player.

However, reports suggest a substantial bid could test their resolve.

Gudmundsson has impressed in England after arriving from Lille last summer, and his performances for both club and country have helped attract interest from elsewhere.

Chelsea's summer business has already centred heavily on defensive additions, with Gudmundsson now joining that growing shortlist.

With Chelsea continuing talks on multiple fronts, the Leeds defender is the latest player to emerge as a potential target ahead of the new season.