Transfer report: Chelsea planning to beat Tottenham to Bologna starlet with £11m swoop

Chelsea are preparing to hijack Tottenham's pursuit of Bologna midfielder Amadou Diawara.

The 18-year-old's performances in Serie A have attracted attention from clubs across Europe, with Spurs leading the chase to secure his signature.

But now, according to Tutto Mercato, Chelsea are readying a £11m bid for the teenager, who has a contract with the Italians until 2020.

The Blues are on the lookout for a midfield powerhouse to provide competition for Nemanja Matic and may soon be short in that area if John Obi Mikel leaves in January.

Tottenham remain keen on Diawara but were planning to increase their interest next summer rather than in the January transfer window.

And that may allow Chelsea to sneak in and persuade Bologna accept their bid for the young Guinea midfielder.