Rumour: Chelsea set to scout Benfica forward Lazar Markovic

Lazar Markovic

Chelsea are reportedly going to use Benfica’s trip to White Hart Lane on Thursday to check on the progress of Lazar Markovic, with a deal in place to give the Blues first option on the young Serbian youngster, according to the Evening Standard.

Benfica face off against Tottenham Hotspur in the last 16 of the Europa League and Markovic will be a member of the squad following his move from Partizan Belgrade last summer.

Despite having only been at Estadio de Luz for nine months, Chelsea could look to utilise the deal they have in place with Benfica, giving them first option on their players.

Markovic has a release clause in his contract at Benfica allowing him to leave if anybody tables a bid in excess of £33 million, but due to the relationship between the two clubs, Chelsea can start negotiations anywhere from £12.5m upwards, giving them a significant advantage over any other potential suitors.

Markovic has impressed since his summer switch to the Portuguese club and Jose Mourinho will reportedly make a personal visit to check over his development.

Chelsea are already well blessed in their attacking midfield options with Eden Hazard, Willian and Oscar having all enjoyed fruitful seasons behind the strikers, while Mohamed Salah has only recently arrived in England after his January transfer from Basel.

However, should Markovic display enough potential to make an impact in the Premier League, Chelsea could make their move for the 20-year-old in the summer to bolster their already impressive attacking options.