Chelsea are lining up an ambitious move for RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, with a bid reported to be imminent from the Premier League club.
The 19-year-old Ivorian international caught the eye last season, registering 13 goals and 10 assists in a hugely impressive campaign for the Bundesliga outfit.
Leipzig value Diomande at £102 million, though Chelsea are expected to open negotiations with an initial offer in the region of £85 million.
Reports from The Chelsea Chronicle indicate Chelsea would be willing to loan Diomande back to Leipzig for a further season to allow him to complete his development.
New Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso is understood to be prioritising the signing of a reliable wide forward as he looks to reshape the squad in his image.
The Blues signed several wingers last summer, but none managed to establish themselves as consistent performers, leaving a clear gap in the squad.
Alejandro Garnacho, one of Chelsea’s key acquisitions from that period, is already believed to be on his way out of Stamford Bridge this summer.
Chelsea are not alone in their pursuit of Diomande, with Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain also having been linked with the teenage sensation.
Liverpool, however, are said to be shifting their focus toward a move for Bradley Barcola, while Paris Saint-Germain have yet to accelerate their approach for the winger.
Diomande is considered a versatile threat, capable of operating on both flanks while excelling in one-on-one situations and creating quality chances in the final third.
His ability to press and track back defensively adds further value to his profile, making him a well-rounded option for any top European side.
The teenager also demonstrated his quality on the biggest stage, showing considerable confidence during the World Cup this summer, which has only boosted his reputation further.
Sending Diomande back on loan could be seen as a risk, given the possibility of injury or a dip in form during another season in Germany.
Many observers feel that if Chelsea are going to stretch close to the £100 million mark, the most logical step would be to integrate the winger directly into Xabi Alonso’s plans from the start of the season.