Chelsea are set to sign Nigeria forward Victor Moses from Wigan after the European champions finally met the Latics’ asking price.
The Blues had seen four bids for Moses rejected by Wigan chairman Dave Whelan during the course of a fractious transfer saga that had lasted since the end of last season.
Whelan had infuriated Chelsea by speaking publicly about the negotiations in a bid to drive up the price.
But Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo is on the verge of getting his man at the fifth attempt after Wigan confirmed they have accepted an improved offer and have given the 21-year-old permission to discuss a contract with the west London club.
It has been reported that Wigan were demanding around £9 million for Moses, who joined the Latics from Crystal Palace in 2010 and has risen to prominence after a series of impressive displays last season.