Rumour: Chelsea edge closer to landing Spurs’ wantaway box-to-box star Paulinho

Paulinho may be wearing blue next season

Chelsea are reportedly confident that they can strike a deal to bring Paulinho to Stamford Bridge in the summer, as Goal report that the Brazilian is keen to leave Tottenham Hotspur after an unhappy year at White Hart Lane.

Paulinho only joined Spurs last season in a £17million deal from Corinthians after impressing in the Confederations Cup with Brazil, but has failed to impress during his debut season in England, with his box-to-box abilities rarely on show for the Lilywhites.

Chelsea have been linked with a move for Paulinho in recent weeks as they prepare for life after Frank Lampard, with Jose Mourinho still believed to be a fan of the midfielder, despite his struggles in the Premier League.

Paulinho already has links with Chelsea as he shares the same agent as compatriots Willian and Oscar, with the strong Brazilian contingent at Stamford Bridge having given Mourinho glowing reports of his abilities.

A lot of Paulinho’s future hinges on who will be the next manager at Spurs, with his relationship with current incumbent Tim Sherwood being a frosty one due to his attitude in training at times, while the midfielder was also unhappy that Andre Villas-Boas was sacked just six months into his career at White Hart Lane.

Spurs are believed to want to recoup their initial outlay on the Brazilian and would demand £20m to sell to a Premier League rival, but Chelsea are confident that they can agree terms with their fellow Londoners and give him a fresh start.