According to the Telegraph, Chelsea want their former star youngster Nemanja Matic to return from Benfica, after the Serbian international has proved to become one of the best players in the Portuguese side, and could provide an extra option in midfield for the manager.

The current Chelsea midfield has a mix of experience and youth. With players like Frank Lampard, Jose Mourinho has a dependable option in the center of the park, and with players like Willian, the manager has a different option available. However, one aspect that could be looked at with Matic is the fact that he is a left footer, something Chelsea’s current crop of midfielders do not have. Juan Mata is left footed, but the Spaniard plays more as an attacking winger than a midfielder. With Matic, Chelsea could have someone who can spread the ball out wide and keep possession for the team. The youngster’s potential was not realized during his first spell at the club, and he has since flourished in Portugal.

The fee being rumored on Chelsea’s behalf is in the region of £21 million, but it is highly unlikely that Benfica would accept that offer, so Mourinho may have to up it. Owner Roman Abramovich has always been generous with his managers regarding transfer funds, and Mourinho will hope he again has the backing of the Russian billionaire this time around.