Stamford Bridge side target young French pair.
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Chelsea are readying moves to sign two French youngsters in the January transfer window and according to the Daily Express the moves will cost the Stamford Bridge side a hefty sum.
Jose Mourinho is no doubt keen to strengthen his squad and put a stamp on the playing staff he inherited from Rafa Benitez in the summer. The Blues boss is keen on Marseille midfielder Giannelli Imbula and Porto centre-back Eliaquim Mangala, two players who have become much sought after in recent months.
Marseille midfielder Imbula has impressed since breaking into the first team set-up following his move to the Stade Velodrome from Guingamp and Arsenal are also said to be keen on the French Under 21 international.
FC Porto’s Mangala is similarly coveted following a rock solid season at the Estadio Dragao last term which saw the 22 year old help the club to a domestic title having conceded just 14 goals in 30 Primeira Liga fixtures.
Mourinho has apparently decided to give up on Juventus’s Paul Pogba after being told it would take £40m to land the former Man United man.
Though moves for this pair would prove cheaper neither player is thought to be available ‘on the cheap’ with Imbula valued at £25m by Marseille, while Mangala has a £37m release clause.
Mourinho may see Mangala as a long term replacement for John Terry battler Imbula could offer the Chelsea manager an alternative defensive midfield option to the likes of John Obi Mikel or Michael Essien.