Chelsea have reportedly agreed a deal to sign Stoke goalkeeper, Mohamed Akandji ahead of the summer according to TEAMtalk. 

Akandji has been hugely impressive since he signed for the Potters in the summer of 2018, and has regularly featured for their under 18's side.

The Ivorian's future seemingly lies away from Stoke, although it remains to be seen as to how Chelsea will complete the transfer, given that their transfer ban will remain in place despite an appeal.

The 17-year-old will be hoping that he can break the trend of young players who join Chelsea, and will be keen to force his way into the first-team at the earliest of opportunities.

It's no secret that the Blues have a number of youngsters currently out on loan at other clubs, whose long-term futures seem somewhat 'up in the air'.

Chelsea have reportedly been able to strike a deal with Stoke for Akandji via the EPPP (Elite Player Performance Plan), which leaves the Championship club with no other option than to allow the young shot-stopper to leave the club in favour of a move to Stamford Bridge.

The Verdict: 

It could be a smart bit of business in the future.

Akandji obviously has something about him if Chelsea are reportedly sniffing around to sign him when the transfer window reopens in the summer.

He'll be hoping this move pays off and that he can progress through the youth ranks with the Blues.