Manchester United and Chelsea to lock horns over four-time league champion

Chelsea have reportedly joined Manchester United in the chase to sign Italy international Marco Verratti, according to the Mirror.

The Premier League side, who climbed up to second in the English top-flight table after recording their fifth successive league win following Saturday’s 5-0 thrashing of Everton, are said to be keen on the Paris Saint-Germain midfielder ahead of the January transfer window.

Photo: Marc Atkins / Offside.

The 24-year-old, who has 18 international caps for the Azzurri, has scored two goals and provided one assist in 14 appearances in all competitions for the defending Ligue 1 champions so far this season.

Verratti, who began his professional career in his homeland with Pescara, is also said to be on Premier League rivals Manchester United’s radar ahead of the new year period.

Despite the Italian signing a new five-year deal at the Parc des Princes back in August, Blues boss Antonio Conte could look to recruit Verratti as a replacement for fellow midfielder Cesc Fabregas, who is likely to be loaned out in January.