Chelsea have taken the lead in the race to sign Roma goalkeeper Alisson, according to reports in Spain.
The Brazilian number one, who is currently on international duty at the World Cup, could be set to be one of the big money movers in this summer’s transfer window, with Liverpool and Real Madrid also thought to be interested.
However Spanish publication Marca claim that it is in fact Chelsea who are closest to landing the 25-year-old, as they are the closest to matching Roma’s £62 million valuation.
Current Blues number one Thibaut Courtois has just a year remaining on his contract and is expected to leave after Chelsea have reportedly given up of him extending his stay a Stamford Bridge.
They are are thought to be ready to cash in on the Belgian while he still has some transfer value, and like Alisson, is also attracting the attentions of Liverpool and Real Madrid.
Alisson actually would prefer a move to the Bernabeu, but Real Madrid’s opening offer of £35 million has been rejected, and they are thought to be reluctant to go much higher.