Chelsea are reportedly showing keen interest on Brazilian starlet Malcom, who is considered as the country’s ‘next big prospect’.
According to John Cross of The Mirror, Chelsea are one of the several European clubs that are keeping tabs on the 17-year-old. The Blues, despite having strong connections in South America, are likely to face competition from Barcelona, who reportedly have the first refusal on the player.
Malcom is vastly talented and despite his tender age is considered as the country’s one of the top prospects, having established himself in the Corinthians first team, making 20 appearances last season.
Chelsea already have a strong Brazilian contingent in the side with the likes of Filipe Luis, Oscar, Ramires and Willian are all regular internationals for Brazil, and this could be a major factor for the youngster in choosing Chelsea over Barcelona or other clubs.
In other news, Chelsea defender Ryan Bertrand, who is currently on loan at Southampton, will make his switch to the St Mary’s permanent either in the January transfer window or next summer.
According to James Nursey of The Mirror, Southampton will sign Bertrand permanently from Chelsea in 2015.
Southampton have given a five-year-deal to England U20 left-back Matt Targett last week but Mirror claim the Saints want both the defenders to compete for the regular starting spot.
In any way, Bertrand has no future at Chelsea. The Blues already have Cesar Azpilicueta and Filipe Luis for that position, both being superior in quality than the Englishman, and a move away from Stamford Bridge will enhance his chances of playing regular games.
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