Chelsea in contact with Lazio star

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte have approached the agent of Lazio midfielder Felipe Anderson. The Brazil international is a long-term target for Manchester United.

The 23-year-old has been long linked with a switch to the Premier League with the Red Devils being his main admirers.

According to Il Messaggero, the Blues have joined the pursuit for the talented attacker with owner Roman Abramovich willing to spend big to boost the squad.

Antonio Conte has placed the need for a new central defender, but the possibility of landing a creative midfielder remains on the mind of the Italian coach.

Anderson's representative has already arrived in the English capital to hold initial discussions over a possible winter deal.

Lazio currently value their asset in the £35m range, and they are unlikely to settle for anything less.