Transfer news: Chelsea frozen out as Italian giants plan sensational deal

Chelsea are understood to be interested in Higuain if Juventus indicate he is available.

A move for the Argentine could set the Blues back around £50m, while a deal involving Alvaro Morata in exchange has also been discussed.

But reports in Italy today suggest Chelsea may be completely overlooked.

Tuttosport claim Juventus and Inter Milan are trying to agree a swap deal between Higuain and Mauro Icardi.

Higuain, 30, is five years Icardi’s senior and cost Juve £75m just two years ago.

Juve manager Max Allegri is said to be open to offloading the former Napoli striker but wants a replacement lined up.

And Icardi appears to be the ideal target.

The 25-year-old’s 29 goals helped Inter secure European football for next season and his wife and agent Wanda Nara is working on a deal to get him out of the San Siro.

But there are few buyers willing to pay Inter’s £100m demands.

Tuttosport claim a Higuain/Icardi swap deal would suit both Allegri and Inter manager Luciano Spalletti.

However, the two clubs will have to find a solution that both players are comfortable with.

As for Chelsea, they are close to appointing a new manager which would see Antonio Conte exit the club.

Express Sport understands Laurent Blanc is their top target after Roman Abramovich refused to pay Maurizio Sarri’s £7m release clause at Napoli.