Dynamo Moscow’s Portugal international midfielder Maniche, who played under Jose Mourinho at Benfica and Porto, is close to signing for Chelsea.
The 28-year-old could join on loan until the end of the season, when Chelsea will have a £5m option to buy.
Dynamo sports director Boris Ignatiev said: “Talks with Chelsea are continuing but we’re in the last parts of negotiations.”
Mourinho would see Maniche as ideal cover for Michael Essien, who is set to miss at least three games while on duty for Ghana in the African Nations Cup.
Reports have also linked Mourinho with a move for Porto’s Argentinian midfielder Lucho Gonzalez.
Mourinho eager for Maniche switch · Update
Jose Mourinho believes Maniche will adapt quickly to life in England if he joins Chelsea.
“I am looking for a player who knows me deeply and would adapt with a click,” said Mourinho.
“Maniche would be the final piece to give stability in a key sector.”
Mourinho added that talks between Dynamo and Chelsea over the transfer are still in progress.
“We are seeking to establish agreeable conditions for all the parties involved.
“I wait tranquilly but I don’t hide the fact that I want Maniche and Maniche could become a historic player in my career, the only one to play under me at three different clubs: Benfica, Porto and Chelsea.”
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Maniche completes loan move · Update
Maniche has completed his loan move to Chelsea. The 28-year-old joins from Russian side Dynamo Moscow until the end of the season and is eligible to play in the Champions League knockout stages.
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