Written by Football Talk.

Chelsea are closing in on the signing of Benfica midfielder Ramires and hope to complete a £16.8m deal when he returns to Lisbon this week, according to the Guardian. Ramires will talk the proposed transfer over with Benfica directors which is also expected to include performance-related bonuses.

Although a deal is thought to be close, Benfica would like to discuss Chelsea including players as part-exchange. Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti has seen his midfield options dwindle this summer after Joe Cole and Michael Ballack left the club, Deco is expected to return to Brazil shortly, while utility player Juliano Belletti has also been released. So far Yossi Benayoun has been the only addition so Ancelotti is keen to bolster his squad as soon as possible.

Brazil midfielder Ramires, 23, is versitile and competitive and should fit in well with the physical nature of the premier league. Benfica would like any deal finalised quickly so they have time to find a replacement.

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