Andreas Christensen is reportedly closing in on a verbal agreement with Barcelona and the Chelsea centre-back is set to leave Stamford Bridge on a free transfer at the end of the season.
Christensen has grown to prominence in the Chelsea squad since Thomas Tuchel's arrival just over a year ago but as speculation surrounding his future mounts, his playing opportunities have diminished.
There had been hopes that a new deal could be struck with the Denmark international but it now appears that Xavi is set to tempt him to the Camp Nou.
Speaking on his time at Chelsea, Christensen praised the impact Tuchel has had on his game.
"In the end with Frank Lampard, I struggled to get the game time I wanted, but Thomas came in and knew me from Germany and I got the idea quite early. It has helped me massively," he said ahead of the Carabao Cup final last month, via the Mirror.
"I had the space to make the mistakes that I made and still play, while earlier in the my career I might have struggled to get back in the team.
"That helped me massively with my confidence and the team. He has given a lot of space to me and others, to allow them to make mistakes.
"It happens. We learn from them. He has helped me a lot."
With Antonio Rudiger and Cesar Azpilicueta also yet to agree new terms on a contract, Tuchel is facing a significant rebuilding job during the summer transfer window.
Roman Abramovich's decision to put the club up for sale could also affect the chances of striking a new deal with the German. Barcelona remain confident of signing Azpilicueta as well as Christensen.
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano delivered an update on Christensen, writing on Twitter : "Barcelona are working to complete Andreas Christensen deal on a five-year contract, new contacts expected this week. Verbal agreement almost ready - but nothing signed yet.
"Barca still 'careful' after what happened with Wijnaldum deal last year - work in progress."
