CHELSEA is poised to turn Brazilian star Raphinha into their first signing with a new ownership, and will also make a move for Raheem Sterling this week.
It will cost new President Todd Boehly more than £ 105 million for the brilliant pair of extremists.
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Chelsea have received a £ 55million bid for accepted Leeds star Raphinha. Credit: EPA
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The Blues will offer £ 50 million for Man City star Raheem Sterling this week Credit: Richard Pelham / The Sun
Chelsea contacted Leeds United for Brazilian star Raphinha and quickly agreed to increase the total asking price by £ 55 million.
The Blues are also offering £ 50m this week for Sterling, 27, who is keen to move to London.
Man City have told Sterling that they will study an offer for him as they know they are facing a losing battle to keep the star, even though they want him to stay.
Chelsea moved quickly to Raphinha with a host of clubs linked with the breakaway star.
Arsenal have been chasing the maverick winger for some time, but Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel was determined not to lose to his London rivals.
Barcelona, Tottenham and Newcastle have also been linked.
Raphina, 25, told the Elland Road bosses that she wanted to leave and that most of them wanted to move to Barça.
But the Spanish giants have financial problems, which paves the way for Chelsea to make a move, and the deal is expected to be announced in the next 48 hours.
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Chelsea have decided to take action in the transfer market following the takeover of the club by the American Boehly for 4.250 million pounds.
So far this summer they have only let go of the players with defenders Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen leaving with free transfers.
Raphinha has yet to agree personal terms with Chelsea before any move.
The 25-year-old Leeds star has scored 11 Premier League goals and added three assists last season.
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Chelsea’s new owner Todd Boehly is activating in the transfer marketCredit: PA
He scored in a 3-2 defeat at Stamford Bridge in December.
Meanwhile, City are still waiting for Sterling to accept a new contract, but they will try to accept an offer as long as the price is right.
The England international is still 12 months away from his current contract, but is worried about the playing time he will get at the Etihad next season.
He could leave as a free agent next year, but he wants to play as much as possible for the World Cup in Qatar.
Chelsea’s new owner Todd Boehly wants to have an instant impact after taking over the club and the signing of Sterling would be a massive coup.
The English winger scored 17 goals and added nine assists in all competitions for City’s Prem champions last season.