Chelsea close in on Abdul Baba Rahman as Filipe Luis nears exit

Chelsea are close to securing a deal with Augsburg for Abdul Baba Rahman with Filipe Luis set to return to Atletico Madrid after failing to make the grade at Stamford Bridge, according to the Mirror.

The defender signed a three-year deal at Chelsea last season but could make only 15 appearances and at 29, is not willing to sit on the bench in the upcoming season.

Rahman has been heavily scouted by Jose Mourinho and the 20-year-old will be a suitable replacement for Luis, whose preference is to move to London. Roma are also interested in the Ghanian but Chelsea are favourites for his signature and hope to get the deal done before July-end.

Rahman has caught the eye of clubs across Europe with his performances last season and will be a good addition to play backup to Cesar Azpilicueta, who is Chelsea's preferred choice in the first team.

He will look to emulate Ghana legend Michael Essien, who had an illustrious career with the Chelsea first team before moving to Panathinaikos.

Chelsea are currently in Montreal, Canada for their pre-season training and will face New York Red Bulls, Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona before taking on Arsenal in the Community Shield on August 2.

The Blues have signed two players thus far in the window, with Radamel Falcao signing from Monaco on a season-long loan while Asmir Begovic was brought in as a replacement for Petr Cech.

Mourinho is planning to win his fourth league title with Chelsea this summer and is ready to invest in reinforcements if needed.

Spanish publication Sport reports that the manager and Cesc Fabregas have both talked with Barcelona winger Pedro, who is considering his future with the Catalans and may choose to move if he feels his first team appearances will be restricted at the club.