Chelsea are increasingly confident of securing the signing of Brighton defender Marc Cucurella, 90min understands.

Manchester City had been looking to secure the signing of the 24-year-old, but they baulked at Brighton's asking price of £50m.

City held talks with Brighton but only went as high as £40m, but sources have now confirmed to 90min that Chelsea have stepped in and agreed to pay £50m.

The two sides are now finalising the deal including payment options and add-ons, and a deal is now close to completion.

Personal terms are not seen as an issue as they are already believed to have been agreed in principle, and Cucurella, who was keen on a move to City, has already made it clear through his representatives that he is more than happy to join Chelsea.

Despite already signing Kalidou Koulibaly this summer, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel made it clear to his superiors that he wanted three new defenders and he is now well on his way to getting his wish.

Chelsea have recently missed out on the signings of Matthijs de Ligt and Jules Kounde, so landing Cucrella will be a huge boost.

They are also advancing in conversations with Leicester for Wesley Fofana, although agreement for the French international is not believed to be imminent.

This article was originally published on 90min as Chelsea agree to meet Brighton's Marc Cucurella price tag.