Chelsea to sign goalkeeper Edouard Mendy for Sh2.5 billion

Algeria's forward Riyad Mahrez (UP) jumps over Senegal's goalkeeper Edouard Mendy as he blocks the ball during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) football match between Senegal and Algeria at the June 30 Stadium in Cairo on June 27, 2019. (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO / AFP)

Chelsea are set to complete the signing of goalkeeper Edouard Mendy for an initial £18million in the coming days.

French side Rennes have confirmed that they are in talks with the Blues over the 28-year-old Senegal stopper, after he asked to be allowed to join the Premier League side.

Mendy has been heavily recommended by sporting director Petr Cech, after a summer where Frank Lampard and the club's hierarchy have considered a number of stoppers from across Europe.

Talks between the two clubs are now in the final stages and there should be few issues over personal terms.

Chelsea boss Lampard wants Mendy to come and battle Kepa Arrizabalaga for the No.1 spot at Stamford Bridge.

Rennes president Nicolas Holveck confirmed on Wednesday: "Discussions have started with Chelsea for Edouard Mendy.

“I can understand his desire, he told us he wants to leave.

"But for now there is no agreement and for a transfer you need an agreement of the three parties.”

Head Coach Frank Lampard Jnr shouts from the sidelines during the Pre-Season Friendly match between Reading and Chelsea at Madejski Stadium on July 28, 2019 in Reading, England. (Photo by Christopher Lee/Getty Images)

Rennes have already rejected a bid of £14million for Mendy, but after continued negotiations with transfer chief Marina Granovskaia, Chelsea's increased offer - plus the keeper's desire to move - is set to be enough to push a deal through.

Kepa struggled last season, but the London club have been unable to find a buyer for the Spaniard - whom they made the world's most expensive 'keeper in a £71million deal in 2018.

Chelsea have already spent well over £200million in the current window, with Lampard spending heavy on his side's attack as he bids to close in on Liverpool and Manchester City.

Paris Saint-Germain captain Thiago Silva and Ben Chilwell have also arrived to shore up a defence which proved the side's Achilles heel last term.

One man set to depart from the backline however is Fikayo Tomori, the England Under-21 international.

The young centre-back is set to join Everton on loan for the season, as the Toffees move to replace their own injured defender, Mason Holgate.