Chelsea are in pole position to land Roma’s highly rated central defender Mehdi Benatia, who is also a reported target of Manchester United and Barcelona.

Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo recently published a story where they reported Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has earmarked Mehdi Benatia as a potential replacement of David Luiz, who will join PSG in the summer.

The 27-year-old defender, who recently admitted of his desire to play for Barcelona, but Mundo Deportivo editor Roger Torello writes, the chances of him joining the Catalan club is very slim.

France Football recently reported that the player’s representatives were in Barcelona to negotiate a deal for Benatia, but Mundo Deportivo reckons his future lies in England, with Chelsea could be the likely destination.

Manchester United are also interested in him. The Red Devils need to fill the voids left by club heroes Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand, but it is unsure whether new manager Louis van Gaal sees Benatia as the player who replace them.

Chelsea are also interested in Real Madrid youngster Raphael Varane and has already made a formal offer to secure his services. Roma are unwilling to sell their prized asset and have slapped an asking price of €40m.

Should Chelsea pay €40m and sign Benatia in summer