Chelsea 'seriously interested in signing £43m Lyon star Houssem Aouar'

Chelsea are plotting a summer move for highly-regarded Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar, according to reports.

Frank Lampard is planning to make drastic changes to his squad this summer with reports earlier this week claiming he is willing to sell eight players.

The Blues were unable to buy players last summer due to their FIFA-imposed transfer ban and Lampard is expected to make the most of this year's transfer window.

According to Italian outlet Tuttomercato, Chelsea are 'serious' about bringing Aouar to Stamford Bridge in the summer in a deal that could cost €50miillion (£43m).

Aouar has emerged as one of the most exciting prospects in football at Lyon and he had previously attracted interest from the likes of Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal.

He played a starring role in Lyon's 1-0 win over Juventus in the Champions League last-16 on Wednesday night and won the Man of the Match prize.

The 21-year-old has scored nine goals and contributed seven assists so far this season in a Lyon team that has struggled to hit the heights of last season.

He could be a mainstay of Lampard's team for several years to come and be a marquee signing in what promises to be a fascinating summer in west London.

Among those said to be on the way out are goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, who has failed to impress this season and recently lost his starting place to Willy Caballero, as well as midfield pair Ross Barkley and Jorginho.

Left-backs Marcos Alonso and Emerson are also at risk, while Kurt Zouma, Willian and Pedro will be assessed between now and the end of the campaign.