Chelsea have initiated discussions over the transfer of Portugal international Bernardo Silva. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder is expected to be sold to one of Europe’s premier clubs by the French league leaders Monaco this summer and has been targeted by Chelsea as part of an ambitious plan to challenge for next season’s Champions League.

Monaco would like to secure a minimum of €80m (£68.4m) for Bernardo, who is comfortable operating on either the left or right wing or as a number 10. With Barcelona, Real Madrid and both Manchester clubs also expressing their interest Monaco, who play Manchester City in the Champions League on Tuesday, believe a money-spinning auction may develop.

Tottenham Hotspur coach Mauricio Pochettino is another prominent admirer of a creative midfielder who