Chelsea favourites to sign Brazilian defender

Chelsea are reportedly ahead of Arsenal and Everton in the race to sign Gabriel from Lille during the summer transfer window.

Frank Lampard's side are presently sitting in the fourth spot in the league standings but their season has still been frustrating due to their backline which has remained vulnerable.

The Blues are said to hold an interest in signing a new centre-back for next season and ESPN reports that Gabriel has been identified as the prime target for the club.

It is added that the west London giants could have the advantage ahead of Arsenal and Everton in the player's pursuit, given they had initiated negotiations with his representative at the beginning of the year.

Lille have placed a £30m price tag on the player's head and they will be hoping that the transfer value inceases with a possible bidding for the defender in the coming months.

Should Gabriel make the move to Stamford Bridge, the Blues are likely to consider the prospect of sending Fikayo Tomori on loan for the 2020/21 campaign.