Transfer news: Chelsea reportedly close to signature of French defender Kurt Zouma

Saint-Etienne defender reveals his love for Blues

Chelsea will win the race to sign highly-rated Saint-Etienne defender Kurt Zouma, according to reports (Getty Images)

Chelsea will win the race to sign highly-rated Saint-Etienne defender Kurt Zouma, according to reports.

The 19-year-old has been linked with a host of Premier League clubs this January including Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal.

However it appears that the Stamford Bridge outfit have won the race for his signature.

Zouma claims that Blues boss Jose Mourinho rang him to discuss a move.

He told L’Equipe: “There has been an advanced contact. At first I thought it was a joke. But I quickly took [Mourinho’s] call seriously.

“A great man like Jose Mourinho phoning a small player like Kurt Zouma, it’s nice. It does not happen to you every day and it is a great sign of respect and trust.

“I will always take Chelsea. I loved this club since childhood and blue is my favourite colour. In my head, it is clear: I want a change. When going abroad, it’s make or break. But it is a risk worth taking.”

St Etienne reportedly want around £10m for the defender who could stay in France on loan until the end of the season.