Chelsea close in on Neymar deal

Premier League champions Chelsea are close to completing a £25million deal for Brazil striker Neymar, according to reports.

Santos president Luis Alvaro Ribeiro has hit out at Chelsea's conduct in their pursuit of his club's star striker and has reportedly rejected the West London's opening bid of £20million for the 18-year-old.

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However, the youngster has set his sights on a move to Europe after being courted by the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and City, as well as Real Madrid, AC Milan, Juventus and Barcelona.

Chelsea seem confident that Neymar, who recently marked his Brazil debut with a goal in a 2-0 win over the USA will sign for the Stamford Bridge club and join compatriot Ramires, who signed from Benfica last week.

Neymar's agent Wagner Ribeiro told The Daily Star: "It is useless for Santos to offer Neymar a pay rise.

"He wants to become the best player in the world.

"The chances of him doing that while playing in Brazil are zero."

Ribero claims that Chelsea officials have already met the player and his father to discuss personal terms.

Meanwhile, the player recently denied that he has already agreed to join Carlo Ancelotti's side before the end of the transfer window telling journalists in Brazil: "I want to stay at Santos and win more titles."