Chelsea chase Paraguayan striker

Chelsea are tracking Paraguay starlet Mauro Caballero, according to the Daily Mirror.

The 17-year-old striker has represented his country at U18 level, and attracted attention from a number of top European clubs after an impressive showing in the recent Copa Libertadores.

Interim Blues boss Roberto Di Matteo - who has taken temporary charge of first-team affairs at Stamford Bridge since the controversial sacking of Andre Villas-Boas in March - has begun identifying potential acquisitions on the basis of where the squad needs strengthening.

With the long-term futures of Didier Drogba, Florent Malouda and Salomon Kalou in doubt, the forward department has been prioritised as the area that needs immediate attention.

Rated at around £5million, Caballero would not be thrust straight into the spotlight, but is seen more as an investment for the future, as Chelsea look to secure the signature of another bright young South American talent.

Son of legendary striker Mauro Antonio Caballero, the teen sensation is looking to follow in his father's footsteps, and is widely regarded as a Paraguayan star of the future.

Having been prolific at international level from the age of 14, when he notched an impressive 27 goals in just 24 appearances for the national U15 side, a Premier League move could help Caballero realise his ultimate dream.