Chelsea have reportedly increased their efforts to sign Zenit St Petersburg midfielder Leandro Paredes.
The Blues are in the market for a replacement for the outgoing Cesc Fabregas, and the Premier League outfit have been strongly linked with Cagliari Calcio's Nicolo Barella.
However, the Italy international is allegedly against a move in January, which according to Sportitalia has led to Chelsea moving into advanced talks regarding the addition of Paredes.
The report claims that Barella's asking price was also a factor, with Paredes's alleged price-tag of £31.5m lower than Barella's value of £40.6m.
Chelsea are also keen to bring in a new frontman, leaving Paredes as the most attractive option at the midway point of the campaign.
Written by
Darren Plant
Darren Plant
