Chelsea Seals Deal for Dortmund's Jamie Gittens in Blockbuster Move

Chelsea have reached an agreement with Borussia Dortmund to sign Jamie Gittens in a deal potentially worth up to €65 million ($76.1m), sources have confirmed to ESPN.

Earlier reports from ESPN indicated that high-level discussions took place between the two clubs in the United States. Representatives from both the Premier League side and Dortmund were present at the Club World Cup, facilitating negotiations that have rapidly progressed in recent days.

The highly-rated 20-year-old winger has reportedly agreed to a seven-year contract with the London club. He is expected to complete his medical examination within the next 48 hours, finalizing the transfer.

Despite FIFA regulations permitting teams to add up to two players to their squads during the Club World Cup, Gittens will be ineligible to represent Chelsea in the competition. This restriction stems from his appearance as a substitute for Dortmund against Fluminense during the group stage, rendering him cup-tied.

Prior to reaching this agreement, Chelsea had two previous bids turned down. The highest offer, totaling €50m including add-ons, fell short of Dortmund's valuation, preventing a deal from being struck before the tournament commenced.

Gittens will join a growing number of former Manchester City players at Stamford Bridge. This follows Liam Delap's £30m transfer from Ipswich Town. Notably, both Cole Palmer and Tosin Adarabioyo also spent time at Manchester City earlier in their careers.

Even with the Gittens deal nearing completion, Chelsea are expected to persist in their efforts to bolster their attacking lineup. The club is reportedly interested in securing Brighton forward João Pedro, although they face competition from Newcastle for his signature.