Chelsea are hoping to conclude a deal for either Cagliari's Nicolo Barella or Leandro Paredes of Zenit before the end of the week.
According to a report by Italian publication Corriere dello Sport on Monday, the Blues want to sign a replacement for outgoing midfielder Cesc Fabregas by the end of the week.
Manager Maurizio Sarri has told his club they must sign a replacement for Fabregas this month.
And Chelsea have drawn up a two-man shortlist of Barella, 21, and Paredes, 25 to replace the Spaniard.