Chelsea to battle Spurs for Axel Witsel

Chelsea look set to provide stiff competition to Tottenham Hotspur in the race to sign Zenit St.Petersburg midfielder Axel Witsel.

The Belgian international is said to have made his mind up for a fresh challenge, and is expected to leave the Russian giants during the current transfer window.

Tottenham Hotspur were understood to have expressed interest in signing the former Benfica man, but according to The Mail, the Blues are hopeful of luring the playmaker to Stamford Bridge having failed to negotiate a deal in the summer.

Italian giants AC Milan are also keen on a winter deal for the 25-year-old attacker.