Guangzhou Evergrande defender Zhang Linpeng has revealed that he is close to joining Premier League champions Chelsea.
The Blues are in the market for a defender and have been actively trying to wriggle John Stones away from Everton’s clutches, but the Toffees have made it clear that they will not sell the England international.
However, it seems Jose Mourinho will fulfil his wish to sign a defender this summer as Chinese international defender Linpeng has revealed that he is close to moving to Stamford Bridge.
While he might not play Premier League football soon because of work permit issues, he is expecting the Blues to take care of the official matters as soon as possible.
The defender told Chinese daily Titan: “I’m very happy and very excited to finally have this formal invitation [to join Chelsea].
relatedNewsStory
“I’ve worked hard and waited these five, six years for my dream of playing overseas, and finally have recognition from the English Premier League.
“Although I’m unable to play in the Premier League directly, I believe [Chelsea] will have the most professional arrangements regarding my permit.
“I have no worries at all about the negotiations.”
A central defender by trade, the 26-year-old can also play as a full-back and has won four straight Chinese Super League titles with Guangzhou.
He has also won the AFC Champions League in 2013 and has earned 44 international caps for the Chinese national team.
There is speculation that Chelsea could loan out the defender to a European side for a period of time to pave his way into the Premier League.
