Leipzig star Christopher Nkunku has reportedly signed a pre-contractual agreement with Chelsea after having a secret medical with the Blues last month.
The French midfielder has emerged as Chelsea's next top transfer target already despite a busy summer outlay of £272million that saw them bring in the likes of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Raheem Sterling and Wesley Fofana.
And while Nkunku would not arrived until next summer, the Blues have a deal in place for him to join Stamford Bridge, according to the Athletic, with owner Todd Boehly happy to pay his full release clause of £53m now to ensure they steal a march on their rivals.
Last week Sportsmail revealed that Nkunku had undergone medical tests in Frankfurt in September ahead of a possible move to Chelsea alongside a a Blues orthopedist.
And as the Blues look to speed up the deal - which they hope to have in place for next summer - they now have an agreement with the player, with the report claiming they have overcome a challenge from their English rivals by moving quickly.
The 24-year-old enjoyed a superb campaign last season as he scored 35 goals and set up 20 more in 52 appearances in all competitions during a sensational term for RB Leipzig on his way to being named Bundesliga player of the year.
His form saw him rewarded with a new two-year extension that keeps him at Leipzig until 2026 - but crucially it included a release clause of £52.8m, which Chelsea have now pounced on.
The eight-cap France star has continued his impressive displays in this campaign - scoring six goals and setting up another in 11 games so far.
charitywale
18
Silva is 38 years Rooney is 36 years🤷♂️