Chelsea are set to complete the signing of former England international goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli.
The ex-Fulham shot-stopper, who turned down advances from Aston Villa, has agreed a two year deal with the European champions and is expected to sign for the Blues in the coming days on a free transfer after his deal at Craven Cottage expired.
Bettinelli is due to complete his medical and sign for the club in the next 48 hours.
Chelsea have been on the look out for a new goalkeeper following the departure of Willy Caballero at the end of last month.
Provided the deal does not hit any last minute hitches, Bettinelli will offer back-up to first choice Edouard Mendy and competition for No 2 Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Importantly, the 29-year-old will add to Chelsea's homegrown contingent.
The Blues have beaten Villa to Bettinelli's signature, with Dean Smith also keen on the shot-stopper.
The goalkeeper spent last season on loan at Middlesbrough, where he played a key role for Neil Warnock's team as they fell short of securing a play-off spot.
Bettinelli was called into the England squad by Gareth Southgate during the 2017/18 season following a string of excellent performances for Fulham - but the club's relegation back into the Championship season effectively halted his international aspirations.
But he is now set for a return to the top-flight for the forthcoming season.
larryboss
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for those of you wondering why we need go keeper 1: willy caballero is gone 2: mendy will represent Senegal at African cup of nations this January 3: we all know kepa present form