No Sign Of Backing Off As Chelsea Increase Offer For Brazilian

Chelsea appears intent on making Filipe Luis as their next major signing of the summer. The blues have already brought in Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa for more than £50 million. After a season without any major trophy, Jose Mourinho is under pressure to deliver some silverware in the upcoming season. The duo of Fabregas and Costa are expected to form bulk of the restructuring at Stamford Bridge.

There are also certain areas of the pitch that need strengthening after the exit of older players. This is primarily seen in the defence where the exit of Ashley Cole leaves a void in the left back position. Luis has been a target for Chelsea in the last few weeks after impressing heavily with Atletico Madrid last season. At 28 years of age, he is at the peak of his powers. Betfair gives odds of 9/1 for Chelsea to lift the Champions League in the 2014-15 season.

Luis was one of the best defenders in La Liga and the Champions League last season. However, many have been surprised with Chelsea’s decision to pay as much as £20 million for a defender who will soon hit the 30s.

The bidding initially started at the £12 million mark, but it is now understood that Chelsea have increased their offer to £15 million. Atletico, however, remain firm that they would not sell the player until any club matches the £19 million buyout clause in his contract.

The player has so far been silent about the transfer rumours, but he is almost certain to seek a move to Chelsea in the near future. Jose Mourinho’s team are seen as the favourites for the Premier League title by Betfair at odds of 7/4.

Atletico recently brought in left-back Guilherme Siquiera for around £8.5 million. This was seen as a major sign that they would be prepared to sell Luis. However, the Spanish club are now playing hardball over the transfer fee, which could infuriate Chelsea.

Other options in the market like Sevilla’s Alberto Moreno would be available at a similar price. The Spaniard is significantly younger at 21. Ironically, his age may be the reason that would put off Chelsea.

After signing several young players over the last few transfer windows and losing older players like Lampard and Ashley Cole in the summer, Jose Mourinho is keen to add some experience to the team. The Portuguese has always been a manager who tries to sign players around 25 years of age. It could be their reason for the sustained interest in Luis.