Chelsea now 'optimistic' of signing 'phenomenal' £68m star at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea are growing in confidence that Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong is ‘open to moving’ to Stamford Bridge, according to journalist Simon Phillips.

De Jong, who is currently on a contract worth £164,000-per-week at the Nou Camp, has found himself at the centre of a tug-of-war throughout the transfer window.

Chelsea head coach Thomas Tuchel has already spent just shy of £170million since the summer window opened for business, but it seems he could be closing in on his next big-money signing.

That is because, according to Spanish sources, the Blues are edging towards agreeing a deal worth close to £68million with Barcelona for de Jong.

Chelsea are still waiting on a decision from the Dutchman as to whether he is willing to head to Stamford Bridge.

But the west Londoners are facing competition from Manchester United, who are reportedly not giving up in their attempts to acquire de Jong.

Although the Red Devils reached a £63million agreement with Barcelona last month, the deal failed to go through, allowing Chelsea to potentially pounce.

Phillips understands that Chelsea are optimistic that they will win the race for de Jong’s services ahead of the September 1 transfer deadline.

The journalist is aware that the 25-year-old would rather head to Stamford Bridge than Old Trafford, boosting the Blues’ hopes.

Phillips told GIVEMESPORT: “We’re now seeing it being released that Chelsea are actually talking about a fee with Barcelona and being close to agreeing a fee, which is what some reports are saying now.

“I’ve always been told that there’s optimism on Chelsea’s side that he would be open to moving to Chelsea. Out of the two clubs, it’s always been Chelsea over Manchester United.”

Considering Manchester United boss Erik ten