Chelsea have reportedly joined the long list of suitors interested in signing Lazio striker Keita Balde Diao.

The forward’s contract at the Lazio expires in 2018, but has been linked with a number of clubs this summer .

The 22-year old scored 16 Serie A goals last season with Chelsea now keen to sign Keita at on offer of £17million as an option to strengthen their front as they prepare for a tight 2007/18 season ahead.

Should he decide to quit the Italian side there would be no shortage of clubs chasing his signature and AC Milan and Juventus have both been linked with the Senegal international in recent weeks.

After being beaten by Manchester United to their top target, Romelu Lukaku, Antonio Conte’s side is desperate for a forward to fill the void left by Diego Costa.

However, the offer looks unlikely to be accepted as Lazio president Claudio Lotito is reportedly insisting on a £26.5 million fee.

Meanwhile, Keita has recently dismissed any links with AC Milan and has insisted he would prefer to play for Juventus.