Chelsea step up chase to sign Galatasaray defensive ace

The Galatasaray star has emerged as a leading candidate to replace Filipe Luis at Stamford Bridge after he completed his move back to Atletico Madrid today.

Following the early departure of Brazil worldwide Felipe Luis, Jose Mourinho had been in the market for a left back who could provide cover to Spain global, Cesar Azpilicueta.

The Blues were linked with Augsberg defensive talent Abdul Rahman Baba, but information from football journalist Gianluca DiMarzio suggests that the London club are in fact closer to signing Telles, and not Baba.

According to Sky Italia, the Blues are in advanced negotiations with the Turkish giants and are close to reaching an agreement with them for the signature of the 22-year-old.

Telles moved to Galatasaray in January 2014 for €6 million (£4.2 million) and established himself in the first team in the second half of last season.

The young Brazilian provided a total of two goals and three assists in 56 games for the Lions last season.

Inter and Juventus were also claimed to be keen on Telles, but it seems Chelsea are on the verge of winning the race for the 22-year-old.

Telles was part of the Galatasaray side that won the league title for a record 20th time last season.