The Blues’ hunt for a center-back has now led them to the former captain of the Brazil U20 side, who currently plies his trade at Ligue 1 side Olympique Marseille
Matheus Doria Macedo, simply known as Doria, is the latest in the long line of young center-backs linked with Premier League giants Chelsea.
The Blues were initially linked with the 21-year-old Brazilian back in 2013. They have now reignited their interest, with the club’s top French scout Guy Hillion scouting the young player earlier this month, according to ClubCall.
Doria was recently asked about what he thought about these links and the Brazilian admitted that he was very flattered by Chelsea’s interest in him.
“Yes, I heard about [Chelsea’s reported interest] through social media,” Doria said, according to FourFourTwo.
“But I think that I need to continue to do my work. We have played eight games, I need to continue.
“I don’t know [if it is true]. I found out about it like you did. But that should not stop one from dreaming, they are one of biggest clubs in Europe.
“I am happy about these rumours, but what is most important is to continue playing well.”
Doria joined Marseille from Brazilian club Botafago for a reported transfer fee of €7 million in 2014. The 21-year-old played for the reserves in his first year at the French club, and was then loaned out to Sao Paolo and La Liga side Granada.
The central defender made just eight appearances during his loan at Granada last season, but he is now the first choice at Marseille. Doria has started all eight of Les Olympiens’ Ligue 1 games this season, and has looked impressive at the back.
Chelsea went all out to secure a central defender this past summer, but eventually ended up signing former player David Luiz back from PSG. The 30-year-old joins an aging Blues back four that has looked in disarray at times this season.
Doria could be one for the future, and it remains to be seen if Chelsea launch a move for the Marseille defender this January.
