According to Brazilian reports, Chelsea is in discussions to sign Fulham midfielder Andreas Pereira.
Enzo Maresca’s team has already acquired five players this summer: Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Omari Kellyman, Renato Veiga, Marc Guiu, and Tosin Adarabioyo.
Despite these signings, Chelsea is still looking to strengthen their squad ahead of the new Premier League season, with a new central midfielder on their shortlist.
Globo reports that Chelsea has contacted Pereira’s agent, Kia Joorabchian, to discuss a potential move to Stamford Bridge.
Maresca has personally approved the move, and Chelsea is prepared to offer Fulham up to £35 million.
Pereira has reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Fulham to leave if a suitable offer is made.
Monaco, which will compete in the Champions League this season, has also shown interest, but Pereira prefers to stay in London and join Chelsea.
Chelsea sees Pereira as a potential replacement for Conor Gallagher, who might leave before the end of the summer transfer window due to having one year left on his contract.
Pereira, who appeared three times as a substitute for Brazil in the Copa America this summer, is currently on vacation in the United States with his family. He will join Fulham’s pre-season camp in Portugal at the end of the month.
Fulham signed Pereira for £10 million from Manchester United two years ago. Last season, he scored three goals and provided seven assists in 37 Premier League games.
