Chelsea ready to scupper Arsenal transfer plans with an audacious move for AS Monaco midfielder, Tiemoue Bakayoko, according to reports.
The North London side have been linked with a move for AS Monaco star Thomas Lemar as an ideal replacement for Alexis Sanchez who appears keen on leaving the Emirates this summer.
Arsene Wenger is understood to be a keen admirer of Lemar and wants him to play for him next season, but might have been too slow in signing the Frenchman.
Reports in the Daily Mirror claim that Monaco are keen to hold on to one of Lemar or Bakayoko and will not let both players leave this summer.
Chelsea are believed to be closing in on a deal for Bakayoko, which is expected to block Arsenal’s deal for Lemar.
Although, it is understood that the attacking midfielder is also open to the idea of moving o the Emirates this summer but might be held back if Chelsea completes a move for Bakayoko.
The Frenchman had a wonderful season last term, netting 14 goals and 14 assists to help his side to a Ligue 1 title.
There are reports that Antonio Conte wants to bring in Bakayoko to add more steel to his midfield next season as they defend their title.
