Chelsea finally set to seal move for Antonio Conte’s prime midfield target

Chelsea finally set to seal move for Antonio Conte’s prime midfield target

Chelsea have endured a frustrating transfer window so far, with the risk of things boiling over last week following the Blues’ loss in the battle with Manchester United for the services of Everton striker Romelu Lukaku, who sealed a move worth £75m to join Jose Mourinho at Old Trafford.

That’s left Chelsea in a difficult position ahead of the commencement of their pre-season campaign, which is due to begin on July 22nd with a clash against London rivals Arsenal in Beijing, but it’s indicated a major signing could be secured before that clash in the Far East.

Sky Sports state Chelsea are approaching a successful conclusion in their quest to sign French midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko from Ligue 1 champions Monaco, with the 22-year-old potentially arriving in time to travel with the squad in their trip to China next week.

Bakayoko has been established as Chelsea’s prime target this summer as they seek to land a top-class partner for N’Golo Kante in the centre of midfield but a move has been delayed, with Monaco fighting tooth and nail to fend off interest and there being concerns over a previous injury.

Respected journalist Matt Law revealed yesterday that a medical was poised to take place this week, with Chelsea assured surgery does not need to take place on the young midfielder following a knee injury, and he’s set to be the club’s third signing this summer- with Conte having already landing Willy Caballero and Antonio Rudiger.

Bakayoko will certainly be the most significant of those three signings though and his move could allow Nemanja Matic to seal an exit from Stamford Bridge, with it clear the Serbian midfielder is surplus to requirements amidst rumours that he could re-unite with Jose Mourinho at Manchester United.

Chelsea face a race against time to get a deal for Bakayoko over the line before the club flies to the Far East next Monday, with their clash against Arsenal in Beijing set to take place the following weekend, but it appears the Blues are in a comfortable position in regards to a deal- despite their being suggestions that Manchester United are looking to hijack Chelsea’s swoop.