Christopher Nkunku has reportedly reached a pre-contract agreement with Chelsea.
Last week, it emerged that RB Leipzig forward Nkunku had undergone medical tests with Chelsea in Germany, ahead of a potential transfer next summer.
The Athletic have now reported that Nkunku has signed a pre-contract with the Premier League club.
Meanwhile, the west London club are said to have agreed to pay a fee "in excess" of Nkunku's €60m (£52.7m) release clause.
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Nkunku is under contract with Leipzig until 2026, with his release clause coming into effect once this season has finished.
Chelsea have agreed to pay a higher fee for Nkunku in advance to avoid a potential bidding war for the 24-year-old in the summer.
The report claims Chelsea have "overcome competition, including from other leading English teams" to sign the forward.
Should he join Chelsea, it would be a major coup for co-owner Todd Boehly, who has temporarily assumed the role of sporting director while he continues his search for a permanent appointment.
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A former Paris Saint-Germain player, Nkunku left the French club to join RB Leipzig in 2019.
He has since gone on to score 55 goals in 148 games for the German side, including eight in 12 appearances this season.
Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain have also been linked with Nkunku, who has made eight appearances for the French national team.
Speaking ahead of Saturday's 2-1 win over Crystal Palace, Chelsea manager Graham Potter refused to comment on the reports linking Nkunku with the Blues.
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"My answer to that type of stuff is unless it's a player for us. I don't really speak about other players," said Potter.
"So, no comment."
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Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Chelsea, Football, Premier League, Christopher Nkunku, Transfers, RB Leipzig