Chelsea line up Matuidi as Mikel’s replacement

BLAISE MATUIDI is being lined up as John Obi Mikel’s replacement at Chelsea, according to reports.

The Nigeria international was set to leave Stamford Bridge in the last transfer window, coming close to a move to Turkish giants Besiktas.

However, the move was reportedly stopped by Jose Mourinho after he failed to secure a suitable replacement before his departure. But it seems the deal could be back on, with Tuttomercatoweb claiming Chelsea are lining up a move for Paris Saint-Germain’s Matuidi.

It’s understood the France international could command a fee in the region of £30 million, given his remaining contract and standing in the squad.

The defensive midfielder is a key part of Laurent Blanc’s plans alongside Thiago Motta and Marco Verratti in the centre of the park.
Matuidi has made 142 appearances for the French giants, scoring 17 goals and is contracted to the club until 2018.