Chelsea now 'very close' to exciting deal at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea are ‘very close’ to pulling off a deal which will see Inter Milan teenager Cesare Casadei head to Stamford Bridge, according to CBS reporter Ben Jacobs.

Blues boss Thomas Tuchel has already spent close to £170million on reinforcements since the transfer window reopened, but it appears as though he is on the verge of welcoming another fresh face.

Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Chelsea are set to sign Casadei after agreeing a fee with Serie A giants Inter.

The transfer guru suggests the deal could set the Blues back £16.8million, after add-ons are taken into consideration, and the 12-cap Italy under-19 international will undergo a medical in London this week.

It is understood that Chelsea have already agreed personal terms with Casadei, having held discussions over a four-year contract.

However, the west Londoners have had to battle to reach a compromise with Inter after seeing two bids rejected ahead of eventually reaching a fee both clubs are happy with.

Chelsea have also been forced to see off competition from French side Nice for the central midfielder.

Jacobs understands that Chelsea are in pole position to land Casadei despite extensive interest from Nice.

The journalist believes the deal could be concluded imminently after making major progress in their pursuit.

He also feels the west Londoners are optimistic that Casadei will soon be on their books rather than remaining with Inter or heading to France.

In an interview held with GIVEMESPORT this afternoon, Jacobs said: “I think, with Casadei, Chelsea are the frontrunners and they’re getting very close. Chelsea are very confident in that deal.”

It is understood that the pursuit of Casadei has come as part of Chelsea’s plans to take their academy to the