Chelsea are a step closer to signing RB Leipzig striker Christopher Nkunku.

The London Evening Standard says Chelsea have a pre-contract agreement in place to sign Nkunku next summer for over £53million.

The 24-year-old - who has eight goals and one assist in 12 games this season - has already undertaken medical tests with the Blues, who are growing in confidence of completing a deal for the France international after a series of meetings between the two clubs.

Chelsea were keen to steal a march on rivals for Nkuku's signature, and have moved quickly outside of the transfer window by agreeing to pay more than his £53m release clause, which becomes active in the summer 2023 transfer window, to ensure they win the race.

Nkunku is keen on making a move to west London and Graham Potter's side now firmly lead the race for his signature ahead of the like of Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain.