Leicester reluctantly accept Chilwell move to Chelsea

Leicester fear they will have to accept a cut-price deal for Ben Chilwell amid Chelsea interest, claims the London Evening Standard.

Chelsea will firm up their interest in Chilwell after wrapping up a deal for RB Leipzig striker Timo Werner next Monday.

Frank Lampard is desperate to sign a new left-back this summer after deeming Emerson and Marcos Alonso surplus to requirements and has identified Chilwell as his first-choice target.

Leicester were determined to fend off Chelsea's interest by valuing Chilwell in the same bracket as Harry Maguire, whom they sold to Manchester United for £80m last summer.

However, Chilwell has made it clear he is keen on a move to Stamford Bridge and in the post-Coronavirus market Leicester reluctantly accept they will have to lower their fee.

Chelsea were hoping to prise the England international away from Leicester for around £50m this summer and Leicester's climb-down in price hands them a major boost.

Manchester City are also monitoring Chilwell's future at Leicester but Chelsea are understood to be the firm favourites for his signature.

Despite making 13 fewer league appearances compared to 2018/19, Chilwell has played a direct hand in more goals this season (5) than last term (4).