Chelsea are “days” away from signing Roma left back Emerson Palmieri for €25m (£22m), according to the Corriere Dello Sport.
The Italian newspaper report that although the deal has yet to reach its final stages, formal discussions are taking place between the Blues and the Serie A side about the defender.
Palmieri’s representatives are also said to be involved in the talks, with the player reportedly attracted by the prospect of moving to the London club.
Chelsea have been seeking cover for first choice left wing back Marcos Alonso for a while, but the club’s pursuit of primary target Alex Sandro has faltered with the Brazilian’s £60m asking price proving too costly.
The Evening Standard reported earlier this week that the Blues would not sanction moves for Sandro or Porto left back Alex Telles because of their price tags.
It looks as though Blues boss Antonio Conte will again have to be satisfied with an acquisition which wasn’t his first choice.
