Chelsea 'very optimistic' of £25m deal ahead of deadline at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea are ‘very optimistic’ they will seal a deal which will see Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang head to Stamford Bridge ahead of the transfer deadline, according to journalist Simon Phillips.

The Blues have already splashed the cash today, having sealed the £70million arrival of Wesley Fofana from Leicester City, but head coach Thomas Tuchel could strengthen his squad with further additions ahead of tomorrow’s 11pm cut-off point.

According to The Athletic, Chelsea have struggled to agree a fee with Barcelona and, as a result, intensive talks over a proposed move for Aubameyang have continued today.

The report suggests the Blues have not met the 63-cap Gabon international’s personal demands either, but a compromise is expected to be reached.

It is understood that Chelsea have been in discussions with Barcelona over a deal worth up to £25million as the transfer deadline draws closer.

Respected Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed that negotiations have entered a key stage as the west Londoners aim to lure Aubameyang back to the Premier League.

But Chelsea are not the frontman’s only admirers as Manchester United have reportedly made a fresh approach.

Phillips understands that Chelsea are confident of reaching a deal which will see Aubameyang head to Stamford Bridge ahead of the transfer deadline.

The journalist believes the Blues will not have been put off by the fact the 33-year-old suffered a broken jaw during a struggle with intruders when his home was burgled at the weekend.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT on Wednesday, Phillips said: “This is one where Chelsea sources are telling me they are still very optimistic that it will get done and it’ll get over the line.

“He has had that injury – a broken jaw – that’s been