Chelsea planning swoop for Antonio Silva?

Chelsea are reportedly lining up a surprise move for Manchester United target Antonio Silva this month.

The Blues are aiming to bolster their central defensive department this winter and they are eyeing a young signing with plenty of potential.

Nice's Jean-Clair Todibo was initially deemed the prime target for the club but the French outfit are unwilling to sell at the current point.

As a result, they are looking at potential alternatives and it is claimed that Silva is the number one target for manager Mauricio Pochettino.

Silva is one of the most sought-after young centre-backs in European football and he currently has a release clause worth €120m in his deal.

Benfica are unlikely to accept anything less for his services, but the Blues are nonetheless optimistic of finding an agreement with them.

They signed Enzo Fernandez from the Portuguese giants last winter by agreeing to pay a higher fee than his €120m buy-out clause.

The Blues may make a similar proposal to land Silva this month.