Chelsea make progress in race to sign Real Madrid defender Sergio Reguilon?

Chelsea have reportedly emerged as the clear frontrunners in the race for Real Madrid defender Sergio Reguilon.

Last week, it was claimed that Everton had made an £18m bid for the left-back, who has spent the most recent campaign on loan at Sevilla.

However, aware that Leicester City's Ben Chilwell could cost four times more than the 23-year-old, Chelsea quickly emerged as another potential destination.

According to ESPN, the Blues have already held discussions with Real regarding a deal, with a season-long loan or a permanent deal worth £22.5m both on the table.

Reguilon has made a positive impact during his 23 appearances for Real, only losing his place in the squad due to the big-money addition of Ferland Mendy last summer.

Chelsea are expected to be able to offset any fee with the sale of Emerson Palmieri to one of a number of Italian clubs interested in his services.