Report: Chelsea “confident” of signing China international

 

Zhang Linpeng is set to move to Premier League champions Chelsea, who are increasingly “confident” about a deal, according to the Telegraph.

The Blues are currently embroiled in a surprisingly public transfer saga with Everton over John Stones, with the Merseyside club rejecting several bids. However, Zhang is one central defender who looks as though he will be joining Chelsea.

A China international with 44 caps, Zhang currently plays for Guangzhou Evergrande in his homeland. With them, he won four consecutive Chinese titles, as well as the 2013 Asian Champions League.

The Telegraph report that Zhang will be immediately loaned out once he signs for Chelsea, as he currently lacks the work permit requirements to ply his trade in England.

Earlier today, Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho confirmed he is looking for “one more player” before the transfer window closes.

Mourinho wants “one more player” for Chelsea’s title defence

26-year-old Zhang all but confirmed his transfer to the London side by saying: “I’m very happy and very excited to finally have this formal invitation.

“I’ve worked hard and waited these five or six years for my dream of playing overseas, and finally have recognition from the English Premier League.”

Chelsea have endured a difficult start to the season, conceding seven goals. Only Sunderland (eight) have let in more after three games, which has possibly pushed Mourinho towards defensive signings.
So far, he has brought four new players to the club. Baba Rahman is yet to play, whilst Asmir Begovic replaced the suspended Thibaut Courtois in the 3-0 defeat at Manchester City.

At the other end of the field, Falcao has continued his disappointing Manchester United form, failing to make an impact in the league or Community Shield.

Their latest addition, Pedro, began Premier League life in stunning fashion though. The ex-Barcelona man scored and assisted in Chelsea’s only win of 2015/16, against West Brom.