Fernando Llorente helped Swansea City avoid the drop last season (Picture: Getty)

Chelsea are on the verge of signing Fernando Llorente from Swansea City as Antonio Conte’s fifth summer signing, reports in Spain say.

Conte is a known admirer of Llorente, who scored 15 Premier League goals last season, having signed him for Juventus in 2015.

The former Italy boss hopes Chelsea can secure at least three new signings before the deadline closes on Thursday night and Llorente is a top target.

The 32-year-old helped the Swans avoid relegation last term following his surprise move from Sevilla and was originally valued at around £30million by the Welsh club.

Antonio Conte signed the Spain international while at Juventus (Picture: Getty)

However, Spanish outlet AS say Chelsea are closing in on a deal for half of that price as Swansea turn their attentions for Manchester City striker Wilfried Bony.

The Daily Mail, meanwhile, say Llorente’s switch to Stamford Bridge could be wrapped up today after talks were held between the two clubs last night.

Chelsea are also hoping to complete a deal for England international Ross Barkley but will be forced to table an improved offer after Everton rejected their opening £25m bid.

Blues boss Antonio Conte (Picture: Getty)

Conte, 47, is also keen to bring Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to west London but the Arsenal star is believed to be holding out hope for a move to Liverpool.

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