Di Matteo keeps tabs on Neymar

CHELSEA last night stepped up their pursuit of Brazilian strike ace Neymar.

Blues coach Roberto di Matteo watched the 19-year-old play for his country against Germany in Stuttgart.

Chelsea are long-term admirers of the Santos star, who has a £40million release clause in his contract.

But they face stiff competition from former Stamford Bridge boss Jose Mourinho, now in charge of Real Madrid.

Manchester City, Barcelona and Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala are also Neymar fans.

Chelsea have been on his trail since before Andre Villas-Boas took charge. They made an unsuccessful move in January, failing to match the release clause terms.

They were given permission to speak to him a few weeks ago, but Santos said they were no longer interested in selling him.

Now Di Matteo's report will determine Chelsea's next move.