Chelsea are all set to complete the signing of Brazilian striker Alexandre Pato this week.
The 26-year-old striker has been in outstanding form for Sao Paulo and is keen on a move to Europe this month.
Pato has been linked with the likes of Liverpool and Manchester United, but it appears that the highly talented South American is on his way to Stamford Bridge.
According to the London Evening Standard, Chelsea players believe that the Premier League champions will seal the signing of Pato this week before the Arsenal game.
Injuries to Diego Costa and Radamel Falcao have left Chelsea with just one fit striker and the Blues are keen to add more quality and depth in that department. The only fit striker Loic Remy has hardly played this season and has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge.
Pato was once regarded as one of the finest young forwards in the game, but injuries stalled his development at AC Milan and he was forced to return home with Corinthians.
However, the striker failed to fit in at Corinthians and was then loaned out to Sao Paulo, where he managed to recapture his old form.
The striker has been injury free over the last two seasons and managed to rack up 26 goals last season.
Corinthians are desperate to sell the 26-year-old this month for around £11 million and Chelsea are more than happy to oblige after Costa got injured during the Everton game on the weekend.
Although Costa’s injury is not serious, the Spanish striker is a major doubt for Sunday’s derby against Arsenal.
Earlier we reported that Pato has already agreed personal terms with Chelsea and a move should be confirmed soon. Also, the Brazilian media claimed that Pato’s agent is in London to meet with the Blues and finalise a January move.
London Evening Standard’s report further backs up the claims from Brazil.
Chelsea are in desperate need of a striker and signing Pato would be an intelligent addition to Guus Hiddink’s side. The Blues have struggled in front of the goal so far with Diego Costa failing to recapture his form from last season.
The Spanish international bagged 21 goals in 37 games last season but has only managed 8 goals in 25 appearances so far this term.
Add Sportslens to your Google News Feed!
