QPR told to up offer for Blues Alex
CHELSEA manager Andre Villas-Boas admits unsettled defender Alex could be on his way to west London rivals QPR – but only at the right price.
The Brazilian is transfer listed and Villas-Boas confirmed a top-flight side had lodged a bid, with new Rangers boss Mark Hughes understood to want to make the 29-year-old his first signing.
“There has been an approach from a Premier League club. We have respected Alex’s transfer request so the market is open for him,” said the Portuguese.
“We’re just trying to reach the level of proposal we think is good for the player. Nothing has happened up to now, but we’ll listen to all offers.
“We’ll present anything to the player. He has to make a decision. He has generated interest from a lot of clubs.”
Alex’s departure is poised to coincide with the arrival of a ready-made replacement in Bolton’s Gary Cahill, who is close to joining the Blues.
The England centre-back, who is available at a knock-down £7m because his contract is due to expire in the summer, has spent the week locked in negotiations with Chelsea.
Captain John Terry, meanwhile, has been passed fit for tomorrow’s visit of resurgent Sunderland, who have won five from seven since Martin O’Neill took charge.