Radja Nainggolan is expected to become Antonio Conte’s first signing as Chelsea manager.
The Roma midfielder is understood to have agreed a five-year contract at Stamford Bridge after the two clubs settled on a £28million fee.
Nothing will be rubber stamped until the transfer window re-opens on July 1, however deals can be lined up prior to that date as clubs prepare for next term.
The Giallorossi had been holding out for fee in excess of £30million but are reported to have reduced their asking price after two days of productive negotiations.
Conte, who will officially take charge after leading Italy into battle at Euro 2016, looks to have a major rebuilding job on his hands at Chelsea this summer.
Nainggolan seems to be the first piece of the puzzle for the incoming head coach. But what do we know about the rumoured acquisition?
Here’s a close look at the man who could be lining up in the famous Blues shirt come the start of next season.
Nainggolan in profile
Full name: Radja Nainggolan
Current club: Roma
Date of birth: 4 May 1988
Place of birth: Antwerp, Belgium
Height: 5 ft 9 in
Playing position: Midfielder
What can we expect from Nainggolan?
Nainggolan could perhaps best be described as a tenacious midfielder.
He is certainly an imposing figure with his mohawk hairstyle, body ink and stocky build as he tears around the field.
Tackling is one of Nainggolan’s key strengths and he will surely rattle a few cages in the Premier League next term.
Despite his aggressive style, Nainggolan has a good touch and rarely surrenders possession of the ball.
His passing accuracy for the season stands at well above 80 per cent, showing his measured approach to the game.
Nainggolan can dominate the midfield and offers leadership qualities that have been sorely missing in west London this season.
Where would he fit into the squad?
Nemanja Matic and John Obi Mikel will both be sweating on their places in the side if Nainggolan does pitch up at the Bridge this summer.
Mikel has enjoyed a renaissance under interim manager Guus Hiddink , who knew the Nigerian from his first stint as boss, after playing a backup role under Jose Mourinho.
Nainggolan would almost certainly relegate him to that role once again and the player himself could push for an exit if the Belgian does arrive.
Mikel said: "I have one more season with Chelsea but I know when this season ends, we will definitely sit down and try to sort out whatever needs to be sorted out.
"If it means me leaving, fine. If it means me staying, then I have to play because one thing I don't want to do is to sit on the bench like I did before.
"Wherever it is I just want to play. When this season ends we will definitely sort out the contracts.”
What do his coaches say about him?
Former Roma chief Rudi Garcia: “Nainggolan is a true force of nature He's got an exceptional mentality and a winning character.
"He can play in all three midfield slots, he's an all-round player. He is a leader. I can say that we'll be a stronger team with Radja.”
Current Roma boss Luciano Spalletti: "Nainggolan knows how to do well in both phases, giving him a role could limit him. He's very good when allowed to use his creativity, this is why I have used him as a trequartista multiple times.”
Read More: The full story as Chelsea reportedly strike a deal with Roma.
