Chelsea and Tottenham set for disappointment as Barcelona confirm they have signed two players expected to be Franck Kessie and Andreas Christensen

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has all-but announced the capture of Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen and AC Milan midfielder Franck Kessie.

Both players are out of contract this summer and have been free to open talks with clubs oversees.

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“We’ve completed two signings for the next season,’ the Camp Nou chief told RAC1 in Spain.

“One is a midfielder, the other one is a centre back. But I’m not allowed to mention their names.”

Journalist Fabrizio Romano, who specialises in the transfer market, later tweeted, writing: “Of course, Franck Kessie and Andreas Christensen deals are both fully agreed.”

Chelsea were keen to keep hold of Denmark international Christensen, who has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona since January.

The move to Catalonia for the 25-year-old will end his 10-year association with the Blues.

Christensen made the move to Stamford Bridge as a 15-year-old from Danish giants Brondby in 2012, and has managed to get his hands on multiple honours, including last seasons Champions League.

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He has, however, only made one appearance this season, but has been blighted by injuries and COVID-19.

Meanwhile, Tottenham were previously linked with a move for Kessie as they look to bolster their midfield.

It seems Spurs boss Antonio Conte will now have to look elsewhere for midfield recruits.

Barcelona stepped up their interested in the Ivory Coast international as soon as the star made it clear his intentions was not to remain in Milan.

Kessie, who is eyed as long-term replacement for Barca stalwart Sergio Busquets, has impressed since arriving at the Serie A side from rivals Atalanta in 2019.

In more than 200 appearances in red and black, he has scored 35 goals in the process and contributed to 16 assists.

Barca have made their intentions clear and they are keen to strengthen further, with boss Xavi expected to bring in more recruits this summer, with RB Leipzig’s Dani Olmo a key target.