Chelsea have been linked with a number of players this transfer window, four from the South American country.
Which of these are likely to come off, and which do not seem like happening?
Here’s our run through…
Oscar – On
Chelsea are putting all their efforts into signing the talented midfielder, who plays for Internacional. Oscar is only 20, but is already a full Brazil international, scoring in their friendly against Argentina last month. Sky Sports have reported that Chelsea have had a £25 million offer accepted for the midfielder, with personal terms still to be agreed. Oscar now joins up with Brazil’s Olympic squad, meaning progress on a deal is likely to be delayed, but current reports indicate it is likely to happen, and last night there were even reports the player had a medical at Chelsea yesterday.
Maicon – 50/50
The club were linked with a move for Inter Milan right-back Maicon a fortnight ago, but the trail has gone cold since then. It now appears that Real Madrid are likely to attempt to pip Chelsea for his signature. Chelsea do need a right-back, after allowing Jose Bosingwa to leave on a free, and other names linked have included Gregory van der Wiel, who is available from Ajax. Chelsea’s interest in Maicon is not dead, but it appears to have a 50-50 chance of happening.
Willian – Off
Chelsea were linked with signing Shakhtar Donetsk winger Willian back in January, but did not clinch a deal, and last week the rumours resurfaced. Since January, Chelsea’s options have changed, and another left-sided attacker is not what the club need. Already they have Eden Hazard, Marko Marin and Kevin de Bruyne, and it is far more likely they will move for a right-sided winger instead, with Victor Moses and Theo Walcott among names linked. With fees upwards of £25 million being talked about, the price is just one more reason it won’t happen.
Hulk – Off
Back in early June it looked like Hulk to Chelsea was a done deal, with club and player both keen on a move. However negotiations between Chelsea and Porto have hit a brick wall, with Porto refusing to lower their demands to below £38 million. The transfer could still happen, but it remains in limbo, and reports yesterday indicated that Chelsea are switching their attentions to Napoli frontman Edinson Cavani. They have many cheaper options too, and it appears, for now at least, that the deal is off.
And don’t forget about these two: Brazilian teenage star Lucas Piazon will be hoping to make his breakthrough this season at Stamford Bridge, after leading Chelsea to Youth Cup success last season. Established midfielder Ramires will hope to build on an excellent season in a Chelsea shirt, and will be on hand to welcome any new compatriots into the club’s set up.
Which of the four do you think Chelsea will sign?
image: © daly3d
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
