Chelsea join West Ham in player chase – Hammers offer delay allows Blues to enter race

West Ham United are expected to face competition from Chelsea in the chase for Real Betis’ Luiz Felipe, according to Estadio Deportivo.

Earlier this month, claims from Spain had stated the defender’s agent has already held talks with the Hammers and the La Liga side are waiting for them to make a formal offer to complete the deal.

Despite the agreement with Betis, West Ham have delayed making an offer, allowing Chelsea to enter the race to sign the 26-year-old.

Mauricio Pochettino will not be able to rely upon Wesley Fofana for most of next season after he suffered a serious knee injury, for which he already underwent surgery. The Frenchman’s latest setback has forced the Blues to look for a new centre-back in the market.

This is where David Moyes’ target would fit in. ED state the west London club have now emerged as a new suitor after Mauricio Pochettino included the Brazilian’s name in his list of targets.

Real Betis sporting director Ramón Planes is already working to sign both Marc Bartra and Rafa Marín for free and would have to bring in another centre-back if Felipe were to leave this summer.

Earlier this month, Estadio Deportivo stated Manuel Pellegrini’s side value Felipe at €20m.