Chelsea after Belgium ace

Cape Town - Belgium international Alex Witsel is being lined up for a move to join champions Chelsea this summer, according to reports.

The Express report that Jose Mourinho is plotting a €34 million move to bring Witsel to Stamford Bridge.

The defensive midfielder is reportedly wanted by the Blues to replace long-serving Nigerian midfielder John Obi Mikel.

Witsel has also been linked with Manchester United but it now appears that Chelsea are favourites to land the 26-year-old midfielder's services.

Witsel began his career with Belgium side, Standard Liege, before joining Benfica in 2011.

The midfielder left Portugal for Zenit Saint Petersburg in 2012 after Benfica accepted the €40 million offer.

Witsel has two years left on his current contract.