Chelsea seek to beat Man City to Monaco sensation

Premier League leaders are set to battle it out with Manchester City for the services of highly-rated Monaco midfielder Thomas Lemar.

The 21-year-old has earned plaudits for his performances for the Principality outfit this term but it appears that he could be yearning for a fresh challenge elsewhere.

Lemar has stalled over negotiations over a fresh contract with the Ligue 1 toppers, and according to The Express, the likes of Chelsea and City are keeping tabs on his situation.

The Blues are on the search for a new midfielder amid the uncertainty over the future of Cesc Fabregas. While, the Citizens, on the other hand, are looking to replace Yaya Toure, who could be released at the expiry of his contract in June.

Lemar has established himself as a regular in the starting lineup this campaign, and his tally of 10 goals and six assists represent a good return for a player who is mostly curbed from his attacking instincts.

Monaco will be expecting a sum in the region of £30m if they are to offload their prized asset in the next transfer window.