Transfer news : Chelsea prepare world record £61m bid for Alex Sandro

Chelsea are set to break the world record transfer fee for a defender as they prepare a £61m bid for Juventus full-back Alex Sandro, according to a report in the Times.

The Premier League champions have been pursuing Sandro since the end of last season but have failed to agree a price with the Italian champions despite a lot of negotiating.

However, the Stamford Bridge club are now ready to do whatever is necessary to convince the Serie A champions to sell the 26-year-old Brazilian.

There were reports that Sandro was close to agreeing a new contract with Juventus which led Chelsea to slow down their pursuit but the left wing-back is yet to agree a new deal, which has given fresh hope to the London club.
Manager Antonio Conte is desperate to sign Sandro to play in the left wing-back position as he looks to strengthen all areas of his side before their title defence starts.

The move for Sandro would break the record paid for a defender which is currently held by Manchester City, who slashed £52m on French full-back Benjamin Mendy this summer.
The offer may prove to be too good to refuse for Juventus who have tried their best to convince Sandro to stay at the Turin club. - Read Sport