Chelsea are reportedly preparing a move to hijack Manchester United's transfer of Benfica superstar Goncalo Ramos. The striker is one of Europe's most-promising attackers after his performances at the World Cup and in Portugal.
This season, the 21-year-old has scored an incredible 25 goals in 37 appearances for Benfica, assisting an additional 10. He has also scored four goals for the Portugal national team since making his debut in November - including a hat-trick at the Qatar World Cup.
Ramos' goalscoring record has attracted a number of top Premier League clubs with Chelsea, Man United, Liverpool and Arsenal all being credited with interest. However, Todd Boehly is now expected to take matters into his own hands.
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According to Portuguese newspaper Record (via Sport Witness), the Blues will send scouts to watch Ramos in action in this evening's Liga NOS clash with FC Porto, with it even the 'possibility' of Boehly attending the fixture to catch a closer glimpse of the prodigy himself.
Man United, like Chelsea, are desperate for a new striker. Erik ten Hag has been forced to make do with Wout Weghortst due to the financial restraint by the Glazers, but the Burnley-loanee has scored just two goals since arriving.
The U.S billionaire has recent history with Benfica following the January signing of Enzo Fernandez. Chelsea were interested in the Argentine prior to the window and didn't back down in their attempts to bring the World Cup winner to Stamford Bridge.
Fernandez was eventually signed for a club-record transfer fee worth £106million and has since been one of the club's best performers since. It's likely that the previous deal will play an influence in any potential move for Ramos.
The striker won't be cheap. Benfica have set a £106m exit clause into his contract. There has been talk that the Portuguese side may be open to sell for £88m, according to Correio da Manha.
The recruitment team's trip to Portugal doesn't just seem to be for Ramos. The report claims the fixture will present a chance to 'take notes' on the likes of Benfica's Antonio Silva and Porto winger Pepe.
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