Chelsea on the verge of signing Lewis Dunk from Brighton

Chelsea are closing in on the signing of defender Lewis Dunk from Brighton and Hove Albion, according to The Sun.

The Blues are keen on a deal to land the centre-back to Stamford Bridge this summer as Frank Lampard looks to bolster his defensive options ahead of the new campaign.

The West London outfit could be set to face competition from local rivals Tottenham Hotspur for the 28-year-old’s signature this summer.

The report adds, Chelsea are interested in a move to sign West Ham United’s Declan Rice, but the Blues have been put off by the Hammers’ £80m price tag.

Dunk, 28, is now emerging as Chelsea’s leading candidate to strengthen their back-line ahead of Lampard’s second season in charge at the club.

The centre-back was a regular last season as he helped the Seagulls to finish in 15th place in the table and avoid relegation to the Championship.

Dunk has contributed three goals and three assists in 36 Premier League appearances last season.