Chelsea on 'brink of £22m deal' with Prem rivals in ambitious move

Chelsea are reportedly on the brink of a deal with Sunderland over Blues keeper Djordje Petrovic. The Serbian international, who spent last season on loan at Strasbourg, is set to join the newly-promoted side in a £22million move.

Petrovic was left out of Enzo Maresca's squad for the Club World Cup in America. Instead, 21-year-old stopper Gabriel Slonina was taken as back-up alongside Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen. This transfer development follows Kepa Arrizabalaga's departure this week to join Arsenal.

According to Sacha Tavolieri, Petrovic will sign a five-year deal with the Black Cats. He'll become the club's third signing since their Championship play-off win over Sheffield United in May.

The 25-year-old joined Chelsea two years ago from America side New England Revolution II, and made 31 club appearances in his first season under Mauricio Pochettino. However, he appeared to fall out of favour following the arrival of Maresca last summer.

Chelsea's transfer activity this summer has seemingly accelerated the departures of Petrovic and Kepa. The club have made a host of signings, including 19-year-old keeper Mike Penders from Genk.

The £17million deal had been pre-arranged before officially going through last month. It followed Genk having a breakthrough season in Belgium, making 22 appearances in all competitions.

The Europa Conference League champions have also had a bid for AC Milan No.1 Mike Maignan rejected. However, they are expected to renew their interest once they return from the US.

The sale of Petrovic will also part fund Chelsea's signing of Joao Pedro. The Brazil forward has joined from Brighton, signing a seven-year contract in a deal worth £60m.