Chelsea are favourite to sign Inter Milan’s Fredy Guarin in the January transfer window, according to reports from The Times.

The Colombian midfielder, who can play on either wing, is a prime target for the Blues, as Jose Mourinho, the Chelsea boss, is keen to bolster his squad to consolidate their position as contenders for the Barclays Premier League.

The report says, Inter have already rejected a £13 million bid from Chelsea for the 27-year-old, but the Serie A giants could be willing to sell their midfielder, once their £15 million valuation is met though negotiations are going on at an advanced stage.

Yesterday, there were reports from Italy that Inter could well look for a possible swap deal, with unsettled star Juan Mata, could move in the other direction. Mourinho, who said few days back that ‘doors are open’ for Mata, reiterated yesterday that the Spaniard won’t be sold in January.

Mourinho also commented on the rumours of Chelsea targeting Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuain, saying the Argentina forward is “a player I know we cannot get”.

In fact, Mourinho has denied the possibility of signing a striker in the January transfer window, claiming it is not a priority at the moment.