Chelsea ‘join Atletico Madrid’ in race to sign £88m midfielder from Sporting

After a season of rapid regression twinned with criticism and complaints over their transfer strategy, it seems Chelsea are ready to steal a march on their rivals in the transfer market this summer.

According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, the Blues have started making movements with regards to signing Sporting midfielder Bruno Fernandes. The 23-year-old has been one of the standout players in the Primeira Liga this term, scoring nine goals in the league and 15 in all competitions.

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An all-rounder in the middle of the park who can cover defensive midfield as well as more advanced positions, Fernandes has been lauded for his passing range, counter-attacking threat and ability from set pieces. Alongside his impressive goal tally, he also has 12 assists for the season.

Having already won the Taça da Liga and with Sporting still in the Portuguese title race – albeit only just – the club hierarchy are well aware of just how important Fernandes is to the team. There have been reports suggesting that he has a release clause of around €100m (£88m), though A Bola have not cited the price which Chelsea will have to pay for him.

Atletico also in the mix

Atletico Madrid are also reportedly interested in the former Novara, Udinese and Sampdoria player, who learnt his trade in Serie A where he made well over 100 appearances in total.

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Fernandes has also been linked with Liverpool and Tottenham, though for now it seems Chelsea are the main interested party from the Premier League.