Chelsea transfer news: Blues plotting January raid for PSG outcast Javier Pastore

CHELSEA are plotting a January bid for Paris Saint-Germain attacker Javier Pastore.

A source close to the player confirmed the interest to ESPN and claimed the Argentinian, 27, is also being courted by unnamed clubs in both Italy and China.

The report insists Pastore’s future at the Parc de Princes is hanging in the balance, although he is only “thinking about PSG” as it stands.

Chelsea chief Antonio Conte is understood to be a huge admirer of the former Palermo star after watching him during his time in Serie A.

PA:Press Association

Chelsea chief Antonio Conte is already making plans for the January transfer window[/caption]

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PSG boss Unai Emery is understood to be concerned by Pastore’s history of niggling injuries[/caption]

Pastore comes highly-rated but is out of favour and has struggled to force his way into the PSG team due to the French champions’ legion of stars.

Injuries have not helped his cause but he recently returned to training after recovering from his latest calf problem.

However, manager Unai Emery, who replaced Laurent Blanc in the summer, is said to be concerned at his constant string of knocks.

After extending his current deal last summer, the South American is currently contracted to the club until the summer of 2019.

But PSG could well be tempted to cash-in while he still holds some value and Chelsea appear to be the most likely suitors.