Rumoured: Chelsea linked with Porto defender Eliaquim Mangala worth £30m

Eliaquim Mangala

Chelsea have today been linked with a January raid on Jose Mourinho’s former club Porto to bring centre-back Eliaquim Mangala to Stamford Bridge. The Metro reports that Chelsea are interested in a £30 million move for the French defender, who they were reportedly rebuffed by in the summer.

Porto have indicated that they are willing to listen to offers for the 22-year-old – news that is set to spark a bidding war around Europe for a man that has been linked to a host of Europe’s top clubs.

Today’s link with the defender stems from Porto president Pinto da Costa’s admission that the defender could be sold in the next transfer window.

Talking about the defender da Costa said, “He has a release clause and clubs know that, but if a bid arrives that attracts us then we could sell.” The release clause is set at £50 million, but it is believed that Porto would accept a bid of around £30 million for the powerful defender.

Mangala would appear to be a logical fit for Chelsea, as he would provide a long term successor to captain John Terry. The France International is a left sided centre back, and is known for his strength and aerial presence. He made 39 appearances for Porto last season, having joined in 2011 from Belgian club Standard Liege.

Mangala has won five out of the seven headed duels that he has contested in the Champions League this season. He is also yet to miss a tackle.