Riyad Mahrez and his agent have been photographed in the same hotel as Antonio Conte as speculation involving a move to Stamford Bridge intensifies.
Chelsea continue to target the Premier League winner after securing the signature of former team-mate N'Golo Kante, but face competition from London rivals Arsenal.
Goal understands Arsenal have fallen behind Chelsea following early discussions with Mahrez's representatives but Leicester City are adamant they will not lose another star player.
mahrez checking in at fc chelseas official hotel today @BBCSport @DailyMail @ChelseaFC @Arsenal pic.twitter.com/N9xIquW97g
— AlessandroLondon! (@AlessandroLdn) August 8, 2016
@chelsea_hq i met this great man. thats why i was there. and mahrez arrived when I left pic.twitter.com/7x7V05hY0Q
— AlessandroLondon! (@AlessandroLdn) August 8, 2016
Leicester City's owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha took to Instagram last Friday to insist that the PFA Player of the Year was not for sale but Chelsea still hold hope that they can conclude a deal.
Claudio Ranieri, though, has admitted that Mahrez - who was seen at the Chelsea Harbour Hotel - has been distracted by talk of a move away.
Mahrez was instrumental as Leicester shocked the football world by winning the Premier League title last season, scoring 17 goals and contributing 11 assists.
> ..... - Goal