Chelsea are intent on signing Arsenal target Thomas Lemar in January, reports The Daily Telegraph.
Arsenal identified Lemar as the ideal replacement for Alexis Sanchez in the summer but failed with an £80m move for the Monaco winger.
The Gunners have been tipped to rekindle their interest in the France international next month but now face stiff competition from Premier League rivals Chelsea.
Antonio Conte is determined to strengthen his squad in January after regularly complaining about a lack of depth capable of coping with their busy schedule.
Monaco, who have endured a poor campaign, will continue to hold out for around £80m for the 22-year-old, which would require Chelsea breaking their club transfer record for the second time this season.
Niggling injuries have prevented Lemar from rediscovering last season’s form but the French winger has still registered three assists in 11 league appearances this term.
In fact, only Florian Thauvin (15) and Morgan Sanson (14) have provided more assists than Lemar (13) in Ligue 1 since the start of last season.
