Rumour: Chelsea set to win race for Southampton left-back Luke Shaw

Will Chelsea sign Luke Shaw (R)?

The Mirror reports that Chelsea could be set to win the race to sign the highly-talented Luke Shaw from Southampton, but they must guarantee him a starting place.

Shaw, 18, has become Southampton’s first-choice left-back and looks set to be around the top level of football for many years to come.

Jose Mourinho has made signing a left-back a priority in the January transfer window after losing faith in Ashley Cole and having to play Cesar Azpilicueta out of position on the left-hand side.

Shaw has been watched by all of the top clubs – both at home and in Europe – but Chelsea looks to be the young man’s destination as he supported the club as a boy.

He is likely to cost Chelsea more than £15 million due to his talent and potential, but it seems Mourinho and Roman Abramovich will have no problem spending the sort of money to get their man.

Mourinho’s scouts have also watched Sevilla’s Alberto Moreno but has been put off by his extortionate price-tag of £25m.

Luke Shaw (17) has  won 10 more tackles than Gary Cahill (7) so far in thePremier League this season.