April 16, 2015 16:13:03 UK
Chelsea are close to completing a deal to sign Brazilian teenager Nathan Allan de Souza from Atletico Paranaense,
subject to Home Office approval.
The 19-year-old was in London on Wednesday, when he underwent a medical for the Blues, and he is now expected to complete a £4.5million move to Stamford Bridge in time for next season.
Nathan has been on the radar of several top European clubs following an impressive display at the 2013 Under-17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and it appears Premier League leaders Chelsea have won the race for his services – provided he gets the clearance to complete the transfer.
It is subject to Home Office approval on a work permit for the Under-20 international, but Chelsea will hope to get the green light to land him, where he would join his fellow countrymen Willian, Ramires, Filipe Luis and Oscar at the club.
It is thought Mourinho does not consider the teenager ready for first-team action quite yet – and he is likely to sanction a loan move away next term to aid his development at such a crucial stage.
The Blues boss could send Nathan down to a Championship club from August, where he would compete for a regular role, with Chelsea hopeful of a repeat of how Patrick Bamford has done in the second tier for Middlesbrough as they chase promotion.
The 21-year-old’s 17 goals have caught the attention of the Blues coaching staff and there are reports Bamford will now be offered a new, long-term deal by his parent club.
Chelsea will hope to tighten their grip on the Premier League title race this weekend when they take on rivals Manchester United. The Londoners are 2.05 to win on Saturday evening, United are 3.80 and the draw is 3.40.
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