Emerson Palmieri is reportedly close to agreeing terms over a new long-term contract at Chelsea.

While the defender has spent much of his time at Stamford Bridge acting as deputy to Marcos Alonso, the Italy international has still made 35 starts and five substitute outings in all competitions.

However, since the arrival of Frank Lampard, the 25-year-old has been given regular opportunities in the first team, with Alonso only playing during the full-back's recent spell on the sidelines.

According to Tuttomercatoweb, the Blues are ready to reward Palmieri for his form by handing him a new five-year deal.

Should the player pen fresh terms, it would effectively end any talk of a potential return to Serie A in the near future.