Icardi has been heavily linked with Manchester United and Arsenal in recent weeks.
But it is Chelsea who are most committed to bringing the Argentine to England, according to ESPNFC.
The intention is to keep both Icardi and Kovacic
Javier Zanetti
It is claimed that the recent injuries to Diego Costa, Loic Remy and Didier Drogba have persuaded Jose Mourinho that he needs extra depth at the striking position next season.
There has reportedly already been preliminary talks between Chelsea and Inter over the 22-year-old, who has caught the eye with 16 goals in 29 Serie A appearances so far this term.
Chelsea haven't ruled out moves for alternative options if Icardi proves out of reach, but it is claimed that the player is favored by Mourinho as someone who would fit in with his philosophy.
GETTY
Mauro Icardi is wanted at Chelsea
Inter legend Javier Zanetti insisted recently however that the Italian club hope to keep both Icardi and Croatian midfielder Mateo Kovacic.
He said: "The intention is to keep both Icardi and Kovacic."
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