Chelsea leading the race to sign Russia's World Cup star

Chelsea have reportedly moved ahead of Arsenal and Juventus in the pursuit of Russian and CSKA Moscow midfielder Aleksandr Golovin.

The 22-year-old has impressed for the national team at the World Cup with two assists and one goal in the group stage and his performances have seemingly caught the eye of several elite clubs.

Juventus were said to be leading the race for his signature until last week but CSKA's decision to increase his price tag to £22m appears to have put them off from lodging an offer.

As such, Sky Sports News claims that the Blues are heading the queue for the playmaker with incoming manager Maurizio Sarri keen on working alongside him.

Arsenal have also been credited with an interest in Golovin over the past year but their pursuit has seemingly ceased with Arsene Wenger no longer at the helm.

Golovin was rested for the final group stage game versus Uruguay but he is expected to start from the off during Saturday's round of 16 clash against Spain.