Chelsea a step closer to youngster

Chelsea are the favourites to sign Brazilian youngster Lucas Moura after Real Madrid decided against making a move.

Real boss Jose Mourinho was in Germany on Saturday night to watch the 19-year-old in action for the Samba Boys as they beat Denmark 3-1. Despite Moura being rated as one of the most exciting prospects to come out of Brazil recently the' Special One' reportedly decided he wasn't ready for European football and has stepped aside in the race for his signature. That leaves the way clear for Chelsea to move for the Sao Paulo youngster, with the player's agent Wagner Ribeiro revealing the Blues had already made a £32million bid. While the initial offer was turned down Chelsea are thought to be willing to meet Sao Paulo's £35million asking price. Moura has admitted in the past he is excited by the prospect of playing in Europe but could clash with his agent Ribeiro if Chelsea go back in for him as he wants his client to stay in Brazil until after the 2014 World Cup.