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Monaco to join Chelsea in race for Benfica's Nemanja Matic
CHELSEA could have a battle on their hands to re-sign Nemanja Matic, with Monaco fixing their sights on him.
The 24-year-old midfielder was an ever present feature of the Benfica team that reached the Europa League final against the Blues last season.
He was courted by Manchester United in the past couple of months, as they are looking to add some creativity to their midfield.
Chelsea, according to reports in France are prepared to offer £34m, even though his release clause has been set at £42.4m.
It has also been revealed that a delegation from Monaco went to Lisbon last Friday where they meet Benfica's president for exploratory talks over a possible move for Matic.
And with Monaco's financial largesse, Matic's release clause shouldn't deter them from making a bid.
The Serbian, who was at Chelsea for two years, netted three times in the Portuguese Liga last season.