Chelsea line up move for Brazil star in January as Jose Mourinho bids to bolster his squad

Chelsea are lining up a move for Marquinhos

CHELSEA have stepped up their interest in Paris Saint Germain defender Marquinhos, according to reports.

 

The Brazil defender has struggled to dislodge Thiago Silva and David Luiz in the centre of defence.

The 21-year-old has started just four of PSG's nine league games this season with Laurent Blanc's side top of Ligue 1.

And, according to Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo, Chelsea and Barcelona are ready to battle it out for his signature in January.

 

Chelsea tried to bolster their defence in the summer with a move for John Stones.

Everton rejected their offers - even when Chelsea went as high as £37million - and Jose Mourinho eventually had to consider other options.

Marquinhos was on his shortlist then but a deal could't be done so he settled for Papy Djilobodji who has played just once for the club.

Marquinhos joined PSG from Roma in 2013 for £23million.

 

Chelsea's need for defensive reinforcement has increased after their disappointing start to the season and the poor form of John Terry and Branislav Ivanovic.

Terry was subbed at half time against Manchester City in the 3-0 defeat and has been dropped by Mourinho.

Ivanovic has been targeted by opponents since given a harrowing opening day by Jefferson Montero and picked up an injury during the international break.

Chelsea face Aston Villa tomorrow in a crucial game with pressure on both managers to turn their seasons around.