Chelsea prepared to make concrete offer for talented striker

According to the Independent, Chelsea are ready to make a substantial bid for Swansea City’s Fernando Llorente before the summer transfer window closes this week.

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte is determined to reinforce his forward line before the summer transfer window slams shut on Thursday and sees Llorente as a proper mentor and deputy for record transfer signing from Real Madrid Alvaro Morata.

Antonio Conte signed the Swansea striker for Serie A giant Juventus and the forward impressed for his club last campaign, netting 15 goals in 33 league matches.

Paul Clement’s side have formerly shown an unwillingness to cash in on the striker, but the British Publication Independent reports a deal could be sealed as Swansea close in on the move for Wilfried Bony.

Still, a saga may arise over the transfer fee as while the Blues were hoping to pay £20m for him, Swansea City believes £30m is closer to the asking price.

Chelsea are also thought to be progressing on a deal for Leicester City’s Danny Drinkwater.

England duo of Ross Barkley and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain have also emerged as transfer targets for former Juventus boss Conte, who wants to strengthen his English gang at Stamford Bridge.

Llorente has not played for the Welsh club this season after he sustained an injury on his arm during pre season training.