Real Madrid could face Chelsea to sign Sport Recife right-back Pedro Lima, according to a report.
Lima, 17, broke into the starting lineup for Brazil’s second team in January and has now made 25 appearances for the club in all competitions.
Chelsea have long been linked with the young defender as part of their ongoing scouting in South America, with AS claiming that the Blues are currently leading the race to secure Lima’s signature for a fee of around €7m (£6m).
Real Madrid, however, are said to be interested in Lima and are closely monitoring developments with Chelsea, with club officials considering a rival if talks with the 17-year-old end.
The European champions may need to move as soon as possible Relevo Chelsea are close to agreeing a deal with Lima.
Chelsea are “close to closing” in their talks over Lima, who looks set to be the young South American’s move to Stamford Bridge.
The Blues made a move to the Brazilian Serie B side in January 2023 when they offloaded midfielder Andrey Santos from Vasco da Gama, before Angelo Gabriel and David Washington were signed last summer.
Ecuadorian midfielder Kendry Paez will complete his much-anticipated move to Chelsea in the summer of 2025, and will be joined by Palmeiras midfielder Estevao, who has agreed a €65m switch to the Blues.
Chelsea scouting South America have taken inspiration from Madrid, who struck gold by recruiting Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo when they were growing up in their native Brazil.
Aiming to land the next £100m player before he costs £100m, Chelsea’s recruitment team is spending big on a large number of young players in the hope of turning a few into champions.
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