Chelsea’s technical director Michael Emenalo is keen on signing West Ham ace Manuel Lanzini, according to a report.
The Sun claim that the Blues director believes the 24-year-old has the “potential to be on par with Real Madrid’s star Luka Madrid”.
It is understood that the Hammers midfielder is a target for recently-crowned champions Chelsea, while Everton and Liverpool are also both interested in his signature.
The report details that Lanzini has expressed his desire to stay at the London Stadium, though, and stated that he is “very happy” with West Ham.
Lanzini has become a crucial figure for the Londoners this season and had a huge burden placed on him following the departure of Dimitri Payet in January.
The Argentinian, who has recently received his first senior call-up, has managed to help fill the void and is one of Slaven Bilic’s regular starters.
The attacking midfielder has made 39 appearances across all competitions this season, scoring eight goals and supplying two assists in what has been a difficult year for the club following their ground move.
West Ham will be looking improve on their 11th-placed finish in the Premier League table this season by pushing on towards the European spots next year.
Lanzini is certainly regarded as one of the most talented players at the club and it would be a big blow to lose the goalscoring midfielder.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are looking to bolster their squad to help them compete both domestically and in Europe next season.
Antonio Conte’s side ended up clinching their second league title in three seasons and have the financial backing to keep them at the top-end of English football.