Chelsea have won the race for Real Madrid midfielder Mateo Kovacic.

Kovacic has informed Real management he wants to leave this month and Marca says a deal has now been settled with Chelsea.

The Croatia midfielder is currently training away from the first team squad as the two clubs finalise terms over his transfer. Kovacic is expected to join Chelsea initially on-loan with a permanent option included.

It's suggested Real Madrid will confirm later today that Kovacic is joining Chelsea.

Real coach Julen Lopetegui insisted on Monday: "I do not know anything about that. He trained with his teammates and there was no problem. I love him and we are happy he is part of the club."