Chelsea goes after Stoke City goalkeeper

Chelsea are reportedly at advantage in the race to sign highly rated Stoke City goalkeeper Asmir Begovic.

Begovic has been pinpointed as the direct replacement for Petr Cech who has signed for Arsenal.

Begovic is also been chased by Aston Villa but Daily Mail understands that the  Bosnia and Herzegovina international is up for the challenge at Chelsea and willing to move to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea have bid tabled a £8million bid for the 28-year-old goalkeeper which is however short of Stoke's £10m valuation.

The English Premier League champion could also clinch the deal with the offer of cash plus a player in return.

Victor Moses who spent last season on loan at Stoke City could be used by Chelsea to get their target.