Chelsea linked with Brazilian striker Neymar

It is being reported today that Chelsea are making enquiries about the Brazilian teenage sensation Neymar, who currently plays for Santos in Brazil. The 17 year-old is already a first-team regular and has been favourably compared to both Robinho and Pele.

The Daily Mail reports that a FIFA agent working for Chelsea, Giuliano Bertolucci, has approached Neymar’s representatives in an attempt to strike a deal.

Neymar has a release clause of £27m but it has been said that Chelsea have offered half that amount.

Neymar’s father has confirmed that an approach has been made to their agent Wagner Ribiero, but wouldn’t go into details.

“Wagner has been sounded out, but there is nothing official,” said Neymar’s father.

“Therefore, we haven’t moved any further because Wagner can only go to Santos when there is something official. For now, we’re not dealing with any of that.

“Neymar is very young. He had a good year, but still needs to grow. I don’t think that now is the time to leave. He needs to show more for Santos and win titles here. Prepare better.”

Neymar can register with a foreign team when he is 18, in 3 months time, so this is certainly the time to start negotiations.