Chelsea are now in talks to sign Valencia's Aymen Abdennour on loan as they continue their spectacular pursuit of ex-player David Luiz.
The proposed deal is to sign 27-year-old Tunisia international central defender Abdennour for the rest of the season.
Antonio Conte has failed to recruit his top defensive targets this summer despite being anxious to boost his back four.
Bids for Kalidou Koulibaly and Alessio Romagnoli have been rejected and, as they attempt to sign Luiz, Chelsea are also looking to bring in short-term cover.