Transfer: Chelsea agree deals for two midfielders after Fabregas joins Monaco

Chelsea have deals in place to sign Leandro Paredes from Zenit and Cagliari midfielder Nicolo Barella, according to the UK Telegraph.

Blues boss, Maurizio Sarri, has told the board to bolster his squad with two new signings this month and wants the club to replace Cesc Fabregas, who has already agreed a three-and-a-half-year contract with Monaco.

They have now agreed deals in principle for both Paredes and Barella, but have not yet decided which player will replace Fabregas.

It is also understood that Chelsea are still considering whether a new midfielder is even required this month.

Cagliari are demanding a €50million (£45m) transfer fee for Barella, while Zenit value Paredes at €35m (£31.5m).