Robinho, the Real Madrid playmaker, has emerged as the latest target of Luiz Felipe Scolari, the new Chelsea manager. Scolari, the former Portugal coach, has been quick to formulate his plans for next season and views his fellow Brazilian as an important acquisition.

According to reports in As, the Madrid-based sports newspaper, Scolari has discussed the potential move with Roman Abramovich, the Chelsea owner, and Frank Arnesen, the club’s chief scout and director of youth development. Scolari believes that Robinho could provide the flair that Abramovich wants in the team. The Brazilian cost Real £16.5 million when he moved from Santos three years ago. He is unhappy with his £30,000-a-week wages – tax free – at the Bernabéu Stadium but could cost Chelsea up to €45 million (about £36 million).

Alcides, the Chelsea defender who has been on loan with PSV Eindhoven, claims that he will replace Ricardo Carvalho when the Portugal centre back joins Inter Milan this summer.