Chelsea are reportedly after Inter Milan midfielder Patrick Vieira.
The former Arsenal star has been out of favour at the San Siro, struggling to break into the side this season under former Blues boss Jose Mourinho.
His subsequent ommision from the French national squad for the World Cup play-off with the Republic of Ireland has left Vieira after a move in a bid to reignite his international fortunes, and with the World Cup in South Africa around the corner, the 33-year-old is after some regular first team football.
Liverpool and Spurs have also been linked with the veteran, but now Carlo Ancelotti and Chelsea are thought to be lining up an 18-month deal, according to the News of the World.
A short-term deal in January could provide the best solution for both parties, with Chelsea set to lose a handful of stars to the African Nations Cup in that month.Despite his advancing years, Vieira is still regarded as one of the top midfielders in Europe, and a battle could commence between the top european sides for his signature in the coming transfer window.
