Chelsea eye playmaker deal before World Cup

Chelsea are reportedly aiming to secure the services of RB Leipzig attacker Christopher Nkunku before the World Cup.

The Frenchman was heavily linked with a Premier League move this summer, but ended up signing a new long-term contract.

However, the deal includes a €60m buy-out clause for next summer. Chelsea now want to sign him on a pre-agreement for a higher fee.

According to Bild, the 24-year-old has already agreed personal terms and undergone a secret medical with the west London giants.

The Blues will now proceed to negotiate with Leipzig and are confident that they can wrap up his signature before the World Cup begins.

By signing him for a higher fee, Chelsea plan to make the payments over a number of years rather than paying his full release clause.

Nkunku has bagged 10 goals and one assist from 15 outings this term. He is said to be excited by the prospect of moving to London next season.