Chelsea are eager to close a deal for Exeter's £2m-rated teenager Ethan Ampadu.

The Telegraph says his display against Chelsea's youth team in the Checkatrade Trophy has convinced them to make a serious move for him in January.

The Blues are battling Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City for the youngster's signature.

But Antonio Conte's side are willing to loan him back to Exeter to persuade the League Two club into selling to them.

The reports add that Arsenal could be Chelsea's fieriest rivals in pursuit of Ampadu.