Chelsea battling PSG to sign South American star

Chelsea are set to compete with Paris Saint-Germain to land Sporting Lisbon midfielder Manuel Ugarte this summer.

The west London giants are eyeing a new defensive midfielder and Ugarte has been identified as the prime target for them.

Record claim that talks are underway with the player's camp and Chelsea are optimistic of winning the transfer pursuit.

The Blues won't be in the Champions League next term but they are still confident of securing the midfielder's services.

Ugarte has the dream of playing in the Premier League and the Blues are hoping to take advantage of that to persuade him.

The 22-year-old currently has a release clause worth €60 million in his deal but Chelsea plan to pay a higher fee to Sporting.

In that way, they can negotiate a longer payment plan. They are also prepared to send one of their players on loan to Lisbon.

Liverpool have also been linked with Ugarte but the Blues could win the race with a more lucrative salary offer on the table.