Chelsea In Talks With FC Porto Star Hulk

Chelsea are holding talks with FC Porto and Brazil striker Hulk over a summer switch to Stamford Bridge.

The Blues are looking to add a new face up front following the confirmation that Didier Drogba will not be with the club next season, and the European champions have reportedly made Hulk, born Givanildo Vieira de Souza, their number one target.

The giant 25-year-old forward, who can also play on the wing, has cemented his place among the best strikers in Europe by helping FC Porto to back-to-back Portuguese titles and Europa League glory in 2011.

Having netted 21 goals in 38 games last season many are expecting Hulk to make a move to of the continent’s bigger clubs, and it appears that Chelsea, who are yet to appoint a full-time manager, are leading the chase of his signature.

Hulk’s agent, Teodoro Fonseca, has told the Brazilian media: “There hasn't been an official proposal so far. There has been a lot of interest in him, but it has yet to go further than that.

“All that should change next week. Besides Chelsea, there are four more English clubs interested in him.

“Porto will not let him go easily. His release clause is £80m, but ultimately it is the player's wish to take on another challenge that will make the difference.

“Those are the words of Porto's directors. They have said as much, and will not stand in his way, so though it will not be easy for those English clubs financially, there is room for negotiation. We can sort everything out, I am sure.”

The possible arrival of Hulk would lead to further speculation about the Chelsea future of Fernando Torres, but he has confirmed he does want to remain with the Blues.

Torres, who has endured a difficult time since joining from Liverpool, told the club’s official website: “There were times where I lost hope and that has never happened to me before. 

“It's the worst feeling in the world when you love your profession and I became the player I hate. Luckily it is part of the past.”

He added: “We've talked and now I have no doubt what they expect of Fernando Torres. I just want to start next season already.

“At Chelsea I am very happy and I never said the opposite. I still have a lot to do in this club.”