Blues want to increase their Brazilian ranks, which already includes Ramires, Luiz, Oscar and Piazon
Chelsea are looking to add to their growing collection of Brazilians by plotting a January raid for Corinthians midfielder Paulinho.
The Blues already have David Luiz, Oscar, Ramires and Lucas Piazon at Stamford Bridge.
Roberto di Matteo will battle with Inter Milan for the 24-year-old holding midfielder in a similar mould to Ramires.
Meanwhile, unwanted winger Florent Malouda could be heading in the opposite direction to Brazilian side Santos.
The France international has previously stated he would like to finish his career in Brazil and has been told he has no future at Chelsea after being forced to train with the Under-21s.
Meanwhile, Daniel Sturridge will look to leave Chelsea in January to try to revive his England chances.