Defender set for Napoli

Chelsea will have to move quickly if they want Alvaro Pereira as the defender looks set to join Napoli.

The Blues have long been linked with a move for the Porto star and reports claimed Roberto Di Matteo was keen to bring him to Stamford Bridge this summer. Di Matteo is looking at alternatives to Cesar Azpilicueta, who could end up staying with Marseille, and Pereira would be the ideal signing as he can play down either flank. However it looks as though Italian outfit Napoli are closing in on a season-long loan deal with a view to a £7million permanent move this time next year. Porto are keen to offload the 26-year-old as soon as possible following a bust up with coach Vitor Pereira and Napoli looks set to be his destination unless Chelsea make a late move.