Graham Potter verbally agrees to become next Chelsea head coach as Brighton goodbyes begin

Graham Potter has agreed to become the next Chelsea head coach as he arrives in Brighton to say his goodbyes ahead of the move.

The Blues dismissed Thomas Tuchel on Wednesday morning and have acted quickly to secure his replacement, identifying Potter as the man for the long-term future at Stamford Bridge.

The 47-year-old was the early favourite for the job, with Brighton allowing permission for their manager to speak to Chelsea regarding the vacancy on Wednesday.

After meetings in London with Todd Boehly and his fellow Chelsea owners, Potter has reportedly agreed on a long-term deal to join the Blues.

This marks a new era for Chelsea, who will hope for a long and successful spell under the Englishman, with the Brighton boss gaining top-level recognition for the job he has done on the south coast.

As reported by the Daily Mail, Potter has verbally agreed the contract to become the new Blues manager.

The head coach is expected to take charge of his first game on Saturday as Chelsea face Fulham in a London Derby.

Potter was due to speak to the media for Brighton ahead of their clash on the weekend with Bournemouth but cancelled his press conference ahead of his move to Chelsea.

The Englishman is said to be going over final details of his new contract, expected to be available to lead the team this weekend.

He was said to have been the priority target since Tuchel's dismissal, and with a formal approach made to Brighton, the head coach was keen for talks.

Furthermore, sources revealed to the Daily Mail that the only way Chelsea would not appoint him is if he turned down the role.

However, the head coach is keen to move to west London and take over from Tuchel.

The former Chelsea boss will be paid as much as £13 million in compensation after his dismissal, with Boehly's side also paying a release clause to see Potter join them, believed to be as high as £16 million.

As reported by Sky Sports, Potter was expected to be at the Brighton training ground to say his goodbyes this morning.

The Englishman has been pictured arriving on the south coast and will likely be unveiled as the new Chelsea head coach within the next 24 hours.

This marks a new period for Chelsea, appointing Potter as the man to succeed Tuchel.

There will be pressure on the 47-year-old, as Chelsea look to recover this season after already losing three times in all competitions.