AS Monaco’s Tiemoue Bakayoko, a player Arsenal were reportedly keen on last season, is on the verge of joining Chelsea this summer.

  • Bakayoko had been linked with Arsenal
  • He wants to play for Antonio Conte

The 22-year-old midfielder was linked with Arsenal a couple of months ago but now appears to be close to joining Chelsea.

According to the Metro, Bakayoko is very keen to work under Antonio Conte and will join Chelsea for £35m.

He was a stand-out performer for Monaco, leading the side to the Ligue 1 title and Champions League semi-final.

The Frenchman would have added power to Arsenal’s midfield and could have been a good partner for Granit Xhaka.

However, it seems he’ll be competing with N’Golo Kante and Nemanja Matic at Chelsea next season, which could make for a formidable midfield.

Arsenal are believed to be in the market for a central midfielder given the likes of Francis Coquelin, Mohamed Elneny and Jack Wilshere could be shown the door this summer.