• Premier League

Chelsea trying hard to sign Pereira before the deadline

ESPN staff
August 31, 2011
Alvaro Pereira is hopeful of joining Chelsea © Getty Images
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The agent of Alvaro Pereira has revealed Chelsea are in ongoing negotiations with FC Porto to try and reach a deal before the close of the transfer window.

Pereira, a Uruguay international, has recently been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge - having worked with the Blues' current manager Andre Villas-Boas during his time at Estadio do Dragao. Pereira's agent Alejandro Savich has confirmed that the two clubs are trying to get a deal done, although the Premier League side are unwilling to meet the 25-year-old's £26 million release clause.

"I know that the clubs are talking. This is a positive sign. What I know from Chelsea is that they are trying. One can only hope," Savich told Maisfutebol. "It's a lie to suggest he has ever refused to play for FC Porto or taken some action. You know that Alvaro always gave everything. He's played more than 100 games. This cannot be questioned.

"Right now, Alvaro Pereira is waiting while the clubs talk. We have not spoken with Chelsea because I'm not allowed to do so. It is essential Porto and Chelsea reach an agreement first."

Pereira should qualify for a work permit to play in the United Kingdom as a result of his regular presence in the Uruguay national side, but his lack of an EU passport has limited his prospect of a move elsewhere in Europe - with Spanish clubs dealing with quotas on foreign players and Italian sides able to sign only a limited number of non-EU players each season

"Alvaro has enough international appearances for Uruguay to play in England," Savich confirmed. "But the fact that he doesn't have an EU passport compromises the interest of Barcelona, AC Milan and Inter Milan."

Chelsea also have other options, however, with Liverpool's Raul Meireles another they are interested in on deadline day.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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