Chelsea are hoping to close a deal for Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas ahead of late interest from Premier League rivals. The London Evening Standard says Chelsea are closing in on a £27million deal for Fabregas and have offered the Barcelona midfielder a four-year contract worth £156,000-a-week.
Arsenal had the first option to buy back Fabregas but they told Barcelona officials they were not interested, leaving the path clear for Chelsea.
Manchester City and Manchester United are still monitoring the situation and could make an offer but Fabregas now seems set for Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea will pay £27m up front but the fee will rise depending on any trophies he wins at the club.
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