Chelsea set to Hijack Joao Mario move

Euro 2016 winner Joao Mario looked set to join the Biscione but now the Premier League side lead the race due to being able to offer the Portuguese club more money .

After helping Portugal to Euro 2016 triumph, Joao Mario could be set for a move to Chelsea after the Premier League club moved ahead of Inter in the race to sign the Sporting midfielder.

Antonio Conte’s side are now in pole position to sign the Portugal international – as they look to strengthen ahead of a title challenge –with the Premier League club able to offer more money than the Nerazzurri.

Stamford Bridge officials are ready to offer the Portuguese club close to €60 million, according to the Sun, after impressive performances which saw his nation win their first major trophy.

The 23-year-old missed out on the league title with Sporting, finishing two points behind Benfica – but with six goals in 33 league appearances, a host of European clubs have announced their interest in the tireless midfielder.

Inter had almost conceded defeat in their battle to sign Joao Mario, after

Inter director Piero Ausilio played down rumours over the Nerazzurri’s interest, citing the high cost of the 23-year-old as being a big factor.

Mario played a part in every fixture for the Selecao at the Euro 2016, which saw an Eder goal clinch the European Championship for the first time in Portugal’s history