Chelsea have started discussions with Nice over the purchase of Ivorian midfielder Jean Michael Seri, according to a report.

The 26-year-old saw a proposed move to Barcelona break down last summer and has since been linked with Manchester United and Manchester City.

Seri has not quite recaptured the form of last season this time around, playing a direct part in just six Ligue 1 goals, but that has not stopped Chelsea from joining the race for his signature.

French outlet L'Equipe suggests that the Blues are aiming to tie up a deal in time for the start of pre-season, with £35m being enough to prise him away from the Allianz Riviera.

Seri has been with Nice since 2015 after being snapped up from Portuguese side Pacos de Ferreira.