Chelsea made their checks on Renato Sanches

Chelsea explored the possibility of signing free agent Renato Sanches to strengthen their midfield department, according to Foot Mercato.

The Blues sold Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City on deadline day, but they could not find a suitable replacement before the transfer window closed.

Monaco's Lamine Camara was the prime target. Personal terms were agreed with the Senegalese, but a deal fell through at the final hurdle.

The Ligue 1 side had agreed to sell him for around £47m, but pulled the plug on the transfer with just minutes left before the transfer deadline.

This has left the Blues short in midfield, particularly with Moises Caicedo's injury. The Ecuadorian suffered a fresh setback against Brighton & Hove Albion.

It is now revealed that Chelsea explored a possible Bosman move for Sanches, who is a free agent after his recent release from Paris Saint-Germain.

However, they have decided against proceeding with a formal contract offer to the Portuguese after speaking with manager Xabi Alonso this month.