Chelsea have “accelerated” a deal to sign Brentford winger Said Benrahma, according to La Gazette Du Fennec. The Algeria based publication claims the Blues have “officially contacted” the 24-year-old about a possible move to Stamford Bridge.

It is believed Frank Lampard’s side were interested in the Algerian international during the January transfer window, but no formal offer was made for the player.

However, La Gazette Du Fennec claim that Chelsea have revived their bid for Benrahma, but the winger will not come cheap with Brentford said to be holding out for a sizeable transfer fee.

The Bees had originally demanded €40m (£36m) for the midfielder but the impact of the global health crisis has meant they have lowered their demands to €30m (£27m) to €35m (£31m).

That is still a pretty high asking price considering Benrahma is unproven at the highest level. His 10 goals and eight assists in 34 appearances for Brentford this season makes for impressive reading, but it remains to be seen if he could cut it in the Premier League.