Chelsea have opened talks with Watford for the transfer of Nathaniel Chalobah, the Evening Standard has revealed.
The 22-year-old already enjoyed a loan spell at Vicarage Open and is open to make a return this summer.
The Hornets are expected to pay £5million for the midfielder with the Blues including a buy-back clause in the agreement.
Manager Antonio Conte believes the youngster could be one for the future but cannot promise him regular first-team football for next season.
Chalobah has one year left on his current Chelsea deal.
Another Chelsea midfielder is expected to leave the club this summer after reports in England have claimed that Ruben Loftus-Cheek is set to leave on loan.
Newcastle United are interested in the 21-year-old.
