Chelsea are making a serious move for Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane.

Off contract next summer and refusing to consider efforts by Real Madrid to open new contract talks, Varane is set to be sold.

In England, Manchester United are regarded as favourites to sign the France international, with talk of him agreeing personal terms with the English giants.

However, Okdiario says Chelsea are now in contact and pushing to beat United to Varane's signing.

Blues manager Thomas Tuchel is the main driver of the deal and, after their Champions League triumph last season, has the full backing of club owner Roman Abramovich.

With Thiago Silva about to turn 37, Tuchel believes there would be no better option than Varane to eventually succeed the veteran.