Chelsea are 'very close' to pulling off a deal which will see Inter Milan teenager Cesare Casadei head to Stamford Bridge, according to CBS reporter Ben Jacobs.

Blues boss Thomas Tuchel has already spent close to £170million on reinforcements since the transfer window reopened, but it appears as though he is on the verge of welcoming another fresh face.

GiveMeSport Transfer Latest

GiveMeSport Transfer Latest

What's the latest news involving Casadei?

Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Chelsea are set to sign Casadei after agreeing a fee with Serie A giants Inter.

The transfer guru suggests the deal could set the Blues back £16.8million, after add-ons are taken into consideration, and the 12-cap Italy under-19 international will undergo a medical in London this week.

It is understood that Chelsea have already agreed personal terms with Casadei, having held discussions over a four-year contract.

However, the west Londoners have had to battle to reach a compromise with Inter after seeing two bids rejected ahead of eventually reaching a fee both clubs are happy with.

Chelsea have also been forced to see off competition from French side Nice for the central midfielder.

What has Ben Jacobs said about Casadei?

Jacobs understands that Chelsea are in pole position to land Casadei despite extensive interest from Nice.

The journalist believes the deal could be concluded imminently after making major progress in their pursuit.

He also feels the west Londoners are optimistic that Casadei will soon be on their books rather than remaining with Inter or heading to France.

In an interview held with GIVEMESPORT this afternoon, Jacobs said: "I think, with Casadei, Chelsea are the frontrunners and they're getting very close. Chelsea are very confident in that deal."

Why has Casadei emerged as a Chelsea target?

It is understood that the pursuit of Casadei has come as part of Chelsea’s plans to take their academy to the next level after huge success under previous owner Roman Abramovich.

Todd Boehly led a £4.25billion takeover of the Blues in May and academy director Neil Bath has reportedly been given significant funds to build on the triumphs of recent years.

Although Casadei has yet to make his senior debut for Inter, he was included in the Italian outfit's squad for the defeat to Sassuolo in February.

He has also shown that he has huge potential by scoring 39 goals and registering a further eight assists in 104 youth appearances, so prising the 19-year-old away from the San Siro could be a masterstroke from Chelsea.