Chelsea close in on deal for Brazilian midfielder

Ukrainian club Metalist Kharkiv has urged Chelsea to increase their bid for Brazilian midfielder Taison or risk the deal collapsing, according to reports.

Negotiations have been ongoing between the two clubs and Metalist have reportedly demanded Chelsea to up their offer to £11million, a fee they deem acceptable for a player who is considered an important part of their plans.

It is understood that personal terms have been agreed between Taison and Chelsea, and a move will materialise as soon as the two clubs can agree a transfer sum.

While the issues of a work permit in theory could provide an obstacle given he is yet to earn an international cap for Brazil, reports claim that Chelsea have received assurances that there will not be any problems.

If the Blues are successful in their pursuit of Taison, he would become the club’s second signing of the January transfer window following the purchase of striker Demba Ba from Newcastle.

It seems the Brazilian contingent at Stamford Bridge continues to grow and if or when Taison arrives he will join compatriots David Luiz, Ramires, Oscar, and Lucas Piazon at the club.

Taison himself revealed earlier this month that he had taken a tour of the club and held talks with owner Roman Abramovich regarding a possible move.

Another midfielder – one more defensive-minded - is also thought to be on their radar and Corinthians star Paulinho, another Brazilian, is considered to be near the top of the wish-list.

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