Chelsea are reportedly "attempting to rush through" the signing of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain from Arsenal due to concerns the deal could be hijacked by Liverpool.
According to Simon Johnson of the Evening Standard, the Blues have had a £35 million bid accepted by the Gunners, but "fear" Liverpool could match the offer if they are unsuccessful in signing Monaco winger Thomas Lemar.
The Reds can also offer Oxlade-Chamberlain a midfield role, which he would prefer, whereas at Stamford Bridge it appears he will ostensibly be used at right wing-back.