Chelsea In Talks To Nick Powerful Box-to-box midfielder Ahead Of Man United

Chelsea are believed to be in talks with Atlanta to sign Franck Kessie, according to reliable reports.

The Ivorian midfielder has been at the centre of transfer battle between Chelsea and Manchester United as both sides aim to bring in reinforcements into their sides in the winter transfer window.

His agent George Atagana recently revealed: “We have a lot of interest from the Premier League. Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City and Arsenal.

“I cannot say at this stage how much he will cost but we are talking about one of the best young players in the world.

“But for us the most important thing is that the technical project is the right one for him.

“Franck is very, young so we have to be very careful about his development.”

Sky Italia journalist Fabrizio Romano has claimed on Twitter: “Chelsea is in talks with #Atalanta for Franck Kessie. Not easy because Atalanta would like to keep him until June. #CFC #Chelsea #transfers.”

Chelsea are understood to have stepped up their interest in the 20-year-old midfield, who plays as box-to-box midfielder and has been compared to his compatriot Yaya Toure.

However, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger earlier this week revealed he is not interested in signing the Ivorian star who will involve with Ivory Coast at the African Cup of Nations.