Chelsea close to signing Ligue 1 shot-stopper

Chelsea are reportedly close to landing the signature of Rennes goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.

The Blues have been linked with a number of shot-stoppers this summer with manager Frank Lampard far from impressed with the displays of Kepa Arrizabalaga last term.

Earlier last month, the Blues failed with a bid of around £14m for Mendy, but they have still continued negotiations with Rennes in order to agree on a suitable price.

It is now revealed by The Athletic that the Blues are on the verge of signing the Senegal international with technical director Petr Cech playing a key role in the discussions.

Cech has a close association with the Ligue 1 side, having featured for them at the beginning of his playing career and he has held talks with Rennes' hierarchy over the player.

Kepa managed only a save percentage of 54.5 in the league last season and it was the worst among the goalkeepers, who had made more than 10 starts during the campaign.

In comparison, Mendy managed a stunning save percentage of 78 during his debut season with Rennes. The 28-year-old is also much taller than Kepa (6'1) at 6 feet 6 inches.