Chelsea seeking further Brazilian creativity
Continuing their siege on Brazilian talent, Chelsea are reported to be maintaining their interest in Lucas Patinho and will look to seal a summer move for the player.
The Fluminense playmaker was being linked with a winter move to Stamford Bridge but remained in the Brasilieiro Serie A to further his development.
Chelsea wrapped up the signature of Lucas Piazon last summer and the youngster has featured well for the club’s reserves over the last seven months, getting two assists in six appearances.
Patinho would be hoping to make a similar gradual breach into the Premier League as he would be expected to hold the same stance in regards to gaining a work permit.
It would appear that Chelsea are in the market for an attacking midfielder after months of speculation linking the likes of Kaka, Modric and Eden Hazard to the club and although Patinho wouldn’t break straight into the starting XI, the West London outfit are actively seeking a long-term successor to Frank Lampard.
Along with Lampard, John Obi Mikel, Raul meireles, Salomon Kalou and Florent Malouda are also being linked with Stamford Bridge departures, freeing up space in the midfield.
Patinho would be expected to be available for the modest fee of less than £2m but is being monitored by several European sides who will pose competition for the Blues.
