Chelsea is plotting a move for highly-rated St Etienne midfielder Lucas Gourna-Douath this summer, according to reports in France.

Gourna-Douath has emerged as one of the most promising players in France this season, racking up 23 Ligue 1 appearances for Claude Puel’s side and producing a string of impressive displays in the process.

Nevertheless, it is believed he could be moved on in the summer transfer window as part of a mass St Etienne clear-out to raise money by cashing in on some of their biggest assets.

The 17-year-old is not short of potential suitors, with Chelsea understood to be one of several clubs eyeing up a move.

According to Foot Mercato, the Blues are considering launching a cut-price offer for Gourna-Douath when the transfer window reopens.

The report suggests that St Etienne would be prepared to accept a bid in the region of £23million for their academy graduate, who still has over two years remaining on his current contract.

Gourna-Douath’s representatives are expecting him to leave the Geoffrey Stadium at the end of the season, yet Chelsea could face competition for his signature.

AC Milan are also said to be keeping close tabs on the youngster, while RB Leipzig are understood to be circling.

And PSG boss Mauricio Pochettino has been a fan ever since he stole the show in St Etienne’s 1-1 draw with the French champions last month.

However, a move to England could interest Gourna-Douath most after watching former team-mates Wesley Fofana and William Saliba leave St Etienne to join the Premier League in recent years.

Fofana has become a crucial member of Brendan Rodgers’ high-flying Leicester side this term, making 21 appearances in all competitions since joining last summer.