Cesc Fabregas has agreed a deal to join Chelsea

Sources close to the player have confirmed the Barcelona midfielder will return to the Premier League in a £30million deal after being told he can leave the Nou Camp, three years after departing Arsenal to rejoin to his boyhood club.

The 27-year-old Spanish international will be signed as a direct replacement for Frank Lampard, who has revealed he is leaving Stamford Bridge and looks set for a move to new MLS franchise New York City.

Manchester United were also keen on Fabregas, but Jose Mourinho has won the race to sign him and his arrival will be a huge boost to the Blues boss as he sets about toppling Manchester City as Premier League champions.