Chelsea keen on signing Alvaro Arbeloa

Chelsea are heading Liverpool in the pursuit of Real Madrid's out-of-favour defender Alvaro Arbeloa, The Express reports.

The Spain international has had a tough time of late and is considering a fresh challenge away from the Bernabeu.

Recent reports revealed that the talented full-back could be heading back to Anfield this month, but The Express claims that Chelsea are leading the chase for the player's services.

It is also understood that Blues boss Jose Mourinho is a huge admirer of the 31-year-old, and wants him to offer him stiff competition to Branislav Ivanonic for the right-back role.