Chelsea have reportedly moved ahead of a number of their Premier League rivals in the race to sign Jean Michael Seri from French club Nice.
The Ivory Coast international saw a move to Barcelona collapse last summer and has since been linked with the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea.
According to Le10 Sport, the Blues have moved first by arranging talks with the central midfielder after being informed by Nice that he is up for sale.
Seri, who is expected to be available for less than £40m, contributed directly to seven goals in the French top flight this season.
Arsenal had been the favourites to sign the 26-year-old as the player's agent is well known to head of football relations Raul Sanllehi, but the report suggests that West London is now likely to be his next destination.
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