Chelsea to Sign Fabregas - Is Mourinho replacing MATA?

The Chelsea defender praised his Spain team-mate as the race for the midfielder's signature heats up, with both Chelsea and Manchester City eager to sign the playmaker

Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta labelled Cesc Fabregas a "special" player and the type his team are lacking within their current squad.

The Premier League giants are believed to be close to buying the 27-year-old from Barcelona, with the Spain international's team-mate Gerard Pique letting slip the deal was all-but done.

Los Blaugranas signed Ivan Rakitic from Sevilla on Thursday, while Goal understands that both the Blues and Manchester City have tabled bids of €35 million for Fabregas.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Azpilicueta, who will play alongside the midfielder at the World Cup, praised the former Arsenal captain's talents.

"At the moment there's nothing official and he's a Barca player," he said.

"All I can say is what I already know about him. He's a great central midfielder with plenty of experience in the Premier League. The best players are always welcome at the best clubs.- BBC