Chelsea are ready to battle with Arsenal over the signing of right-back Nelson Semedo from Benfica, according to the Daily Star.
The 22-year-old has enjoyed a breakthrough season with the Portuguese giants and has established himself down the right flank for Rui Vitoria’s side.
After a series of impressive performances, Semedo has caught the eye of Europe’s elite, with Arsenal and Chelsea leading the chase for the Portuguese international.
With the Blues still recovering from their dreadful start to the season, Mourinho seems keen to strengthen his back four and a move for Semedo could signal the end of Branislav Ivanovic’s illustrious Chelsea career.
Ivanovic has been linked to Inter Milan and with Azpilicueta continuing to prove his worth at left back, Semedo could slot into the Chelsea with immediate effect, which would pour doubt over Baba Rahman’s future with the Londoners.
However, Arsene Wenger has seen his side suffer from a rash of injuries and could stand to add defensive reinforcements in January, despite the Frenchman’s reluctance to make moves in the window in previous windows.
With Semedo emerging as one of the best young defenders in Europe and Chelsea’s history with Benfica, the club they signed David Luiz and Nemanja Matic from, this deal could be the perfect solution for Chelsea’s defensive woes.
