Chelsea to rival Manchester United for 18-year-old Brazilian prodigy’s signature: Reports 

Chelsea are reportedly set to battle it out with Manchester United for the signature of Brazilian prodigy Lorran. According to TuttoMercatoWeb, the Flamengo attacking midfielder is valued at €12 million but could fetch his side a greater sum if he moves to Europe (via The Hard Tackle).

The former Brazil under-17 international spent his formative years in his hometown of Rio de Janeiro and progressed through the ranks at his current team. He's currently enjoying a strong season with Flamengo, having featured 37 times across competitions, bagging four goals and five assists.

Chelsea's links to the youngster may seem surprising given the options they already possess in that area. Cole Palmer is an undoubted starter in this role, while the likes of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Enzo Fernandez are capable of playing in advanced midfield areas.

With Palmer aged just 22, it seems unlikely that an opportunity for Lorran would arise at Stamford Bridge in this position. Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes, who plays in the number 10 pocket at Old Trafford, is contracted at the club till the summer of 2027.

While he is set to stay with the Red Devils for the time being, Fernandes is 30 years old, and Manchester United could need a new long-term creator. Therefore, a move for Lorran to Manchester may seem more suitable for the time being. Lorran is currently contracted at Flamengo till December 2029.

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Pundit Ally McCoist lavishes praise on Chelsea player who he called flop of the season over Manchester United star last year

Moises Caicedo

Pundit Ally McCoist lavished praise on Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo after naming the Ecuador international as the biggest flop of last season. He picked Caicedo over Manchester United's Andre Onana in the process.

The Blues star has turned his fortunes around and has been among the standout players for the west Londoners this campaign. Speaking about the 23-year-old McCoist told talkSPORT (via Express):

"Moises Caicedo has looked an absolutely different player this season, he looks a different human being. I must commend him on his turnaround in form, credit where it’s due. The midfield for Chelsea looks excellent and it’s really refreshing to see."

Caicedo has more often than not partnered Romeo Lavia in the defensive midfield roles at Stamford Bridge this season. With assurance about his partner, the former has made 15 appearances across competitions for the Blues this campaign, bagging a goal and two assists.