Chelsea have jumped into the lead for Chicago Fire goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina and are now on the verge of a deal for US keeper Slonina, reports transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.

The Blues are now leading the race over Real Madrid – with an £8million fee agreed.

The Italian journalist wrote: ‘Gabriel Slonina deal update. Chelsea are now really close to signing the talented goalkeeper, they are pushing after Real Madrid bid rejected – talks are in progress with Chelsea to get the deal done soon.’

“€10m fee expected by Chicago for 2004-born GK Slonina,” Romano added.