Inter’s pursuit of Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic could ultimately prove unfruitful, with reports this afternoon that the Serbian defender could remain in the Premier League if he leaves Stamford Bridge in January.
 

According to The Croydon Advertiser, it’s another London club, Crystal Palace, that are in pole-position to land the player should he decide to leave the Blues. The 32-year-old has been at Chelsea since 2008 and has made over 250 appearances for the club but the arrival of new coach Antonio Conte and has preference for a 3-5-2 formation, has left Ivanovic surplus to requirements.  

As well as interest from Serie A and France, where new Marseille boss Rudi Garcia is reported to be interested, there has also been contact from Chinese Super-League side Jiangsu Suning. Closer to home, West Ham United have also made tentative enquiries but Selhurst Park looks to be the most likely venue to see the Serbian international in 2017.


Steve Mitchell @barafundler