The Blues boss has identified the defense as a potential area which could possibly do with some strengthening in January. Despite Chelsea doing well in the league of late and rising to second place in the table, Mourinho feels that he could still do with improvement at the back.

As a result, he has zeroed in on two players he is interested in – Marseille’s defensive midfielder Giannelli Imbula, and Porto’s highly rated center-back Eliaquim Mangala. Mourinho has been highly impressed by Mangala, who was courted by Chelsea’s domestic rivals Manchester United. No deal took place though as the Red Devils were put off by his massive buy-out clause of £37 million.

It is expected that Chelsea will be asked by Porto to meet the same valuation too, however Mourinho is hopeful that he can make use of his strong connections in Portugal and contacts to try sealing the deal for the French international for around £25 million.

He is also looking to bring in Imbula, who has caught his fancy of late. Chelsea are thought to be interested in signing a defensive midfielder in the upcoming transfer window, and their first choice was Juventus’ young star Paul Pogba, who only relatively recently joined from United.

It was understood that the London club approached Juventus with an inquiry for Pogba, and baulked at their staggering asking rate of £40 million. They have therefore shifted their attention towards less expensive alternatives and have earmarked Imbula, who is thought to be available in the region of £25 million as well.

Metro now state that Mourinho is eyeing these two highly rated stars and intends to spend a combined £50 million on the duo. Do you see both these deals taking shape in January? Will they make Chelsea stronger than what they currently are?

They trail their London rivals and league leaders Arsenal by two points. Will the massive money spent on Imbula and Mangala help Chelsea put an end to the leaky goals conceded and in turn, help them eclipse Arsenal to the title?