Jose Mourinho plots last-gasp raid on Paris Saint Germain

Chelsea’s annual January transfer window splurge could be set to continue with a late bid for out-of-favour PSG forward Ezequiel Lavezzi.

The proposed move would go some way to improving the striking options currently available to manager Jose Mourinho, with 32-year-old Samuel Eto’o the current first choice forward, backed up by an inconsistent Fernando Torres.

And with additional backup Demba Ba looking increasingly likely to depart Stamford Bridge, the Special One could be tempted to turn to the Argentine, who is one of only few options available.

Lavezzi first caught the eye of Mourinho during a swashbuckling spell at Napoli in Serie A, with the Portuguese then manager of Inter Milan.

The Nerazzurri were believed to be long-time admirers of the striker, who is equally adept at playing through the centre as well as out wide – a bonus for anyone looking to fit into the current Chelsea system.

However with Lavezzi opting to remain in Naples until a big money move to France materialised, Inter and Mourinho missed out – until now.

The 28-year-old has struggled for regular playing time this term with the Parisiens, falling behind fellow South American and Napoli man Edinson Cavani.

And with the forward still holding out hope of making Argentina’s squad for the World Cup, a move could be a necessity.

Chelsea fans would no doubt relish the acquisition of Lavezzi, with the striker previously impressing for the Naples club during a memorable Champions League tie.

The Blues are up against Galatasaray in the last 16 of Europe’s premier competition this season and are 12/1 to claim the trophy outright.

And if there is one manager who can rejuvenate a player whose confidence has been undermined by a lack of action in France, it’s Mourinho.

Boasting skill and strength in equal measure, the former Napoli man could be one to excel in the Premier League and even propel the Londoners to the title, something they are backed at 2/1 with Ladbrokes to do.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

Fancy a flutter? Sign up today to claim up to £50 in free bets.