As managers worldwide attempt to lock down their stars on longer contracts, Andre Villas Boas is looking to former club Porto to supply his need for an attacking midfielder.
Joao Moutinho was being linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in the summer following Villas Boas’ appointment at the West London club.
The Blues would undoubtedly rather take Luka Modric from Tottenham after the Croatian maestro has become subject to several bids from the club over the last two transfer windows.
However, it looks unlikely that Spurs will part with their talisman as they find themselves in a more comfortable league position of third, leading the star to unofficially commit his short-term future to Harry Redknapp’s side.
After signing from Sporting Lisbon in 2010, Moutinho became a key component of the Porto side that rampaged to treble-winning success including the crown of Europa League champions.
The 25 year-old appeared in 50 games for the club last season and is in with a similar chance of racking up such a substantial figure again this campaign, featuring 24 times for the northerners in the 2011-12 term.
Villas Boas may soon see one of his countrymen exit the club with Jose Bosingwa being associated with a January departure, however the 34 year-old manager may see another Portuguese international arriving should his attempts to sign alternative playmakers fall through.
Moutinho has made 40 appearances for the Portuguese national team and may be keen to step up the quality of his play before embarking for Euro 2012 later this year.
Playing at a Premier League standard could mean more time on the sidelines should he fail to adjust to the style of the game, however many stars have flourished under the pressure in the past and the former Sporting Lisbon star may be tempted by the deal.
Moutinho’s signature would be more cost effective than other targets in his position and Villas Boas may hold the key in signing the £18m-rated midfielder who he managed so well at Porto.
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