Chelsea have stepped up their interest in Bayer Leverkusen winger Leon Bailey with a view to signing the forward this summer, Metro.co.uk understands.
The 20-year-old is being tracked by a number of Premier League clubs after an eye-catching season in the Bundesliga, where the Jamaica-born winger scored nine times in 30 appearances.
Manchester City had been keen on Bailey with Pep Guardiola valuing the youngster's ability to play anywhere across the attack. However, City are closing in on a deal for Leicester City star Riyad Mahrez and are unlikely to pursue a move for Bailey this summer.
That has created a window of opportunity for Chelsea and Metro.co.uk understands the club's interest in Bailey has increased dramatically in recent weeks.
Bailey was spotted in London last week, fuelling speculation that he could be set for a move to the Premier League.
The winger is believed to be keen on a move to England but Premier League clubs face competition from Bayern Munich and Real Madrid for his signature.
Leverkusen would rather sell abroad rather than strengthen a direct rival and value Bailey at a hefty £70million.
Chelsea are happy to pursue transfer targets despite the ongoing turmoil over who will be in charge next season.
Napoli boss Maurizio Sarri is widely expected to be appointed at Stamford Bridge and the Italian will be consulted over the club's transfer targets.
Willian is keen on reuniting with Jose Mourinho at Manchester United and his departure could create space for Bailly on the right wing.
Chelsea hope that a wave of new signings can convince the likes of Eden Hazard and Thibaut Courtois to remain at the club.
The pair are believed to be reconsidering their futures at the club after Chelsea's failure to qualify for the Champions League for the second time in the last three campaigns.
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