Chelsea round-up: Barcelona ace linked; Southampton want Van Dijk sale; leading the race for Arsenal man

Spanish outlet Don Balon report that Chelsea are one of three clubs who are prepared to pay the £36 million release clause of Barcelona star Sergi Roberto. The versatile midfielder is also wanted by Manchester United and Monaco as they track the Spaniard, who has recently established himself at Barcelona.
Also capable of playing at right-back or right wing-back, Roberto could be a valuable addition. However, Don Balon is far from the most reliable of sources when it comes to Barcelona and this may be pure paper talk. That said, with such a reasonable release clause, the Blues may be tempted.
Another move may be easier than expected for Chelsea, as The Sun claim that Southampton would prefer to sell defender Virgil Van Dijk to the Blues than to Liverpool. The Dutchman is believed to prefer a move to Merseyside, but relations between the Saints and the Reds are poor.
Antonio Conte is reportedly keen on bringing the Southampton man to Stamford Bridge as he looks to add depth to his Chelsea defence. As an establish Premier League player with a reputation as one of the best in the division, he could be a good quality signing as Conte looks to strengthen his squad.

The club are also leading the way in their pursuit of Arsenal midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. The Sun believe that Chelsea have the advantage over the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool and Stoke as they look to persuade the Gunners to part ways with the England international this summer.
Oxlade-Chamberlain is going into the final year of his contract at the Emirates and is thought to be looking for a move away. Arsene Wenger has been insistent that he will not be sold, but with such financial giants as Chelsea lurking, it could be easier said than done to hold on to his man.