Chelsea Transfer News: Cristian Manea Reportedly Set to Join Blues in January

Chelsea have reportedly completed a deal for highly touted Romanian youngster Cristian Manea, who will join the Blues in January following a series of impressive displays for Viitorul Constanta.

According to Dolce Sport (h/t to the Daily Star's Nick Lustig), both clubs have agreed on a £2.3 million fee for the 17-year-old, who is expected to be sent on loan to Vitesse or Malaga upon arrival in west London.

Manea became the youngest-ever player to play for Romania's senior side after impressing as a right-back for Viitorul, and plenty of top clubs around Europe were reportedly after his signature, including Arsenal and Inter Milan, per talkSPORT.

Standing well over six feet tall, Manea has the versatility to play in the centre of the defence, but his speed and stamina make him a perfect fit as a modern full-back. He has the technical ability to contribute in the attacking third, although his rawness makes him more effective as a defender at this point in time.

His powerful build will help him deal with the step up in competition, but while he's supremely talented, he'll likely need several seasons on loan to continue his development before he can contribute for his new club.

His potential is undeniable, however: UEFA.com's Paul-Daniel Zaharia chose Manea as his "One to watch" following the conclusion of the 2013-14 season in Romania, despite the youngster's club battling relegation all season.

Manea becomes the latest in a long line of young, talented players to join the Blues' loan system, as Jose Mourinho continues to invest in the future of his squad. While we may not hear from the Romanian for a while, this move has the potential to pay big dividends at some point in the future.