Chelsea to make new bid for Real Madrid's Raphael Varane?

Chelsea are reportedly lining up a fresh bid for Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane during the summer.

Blues manager Jose Mourinho worked with the 21-year-old during his time in charge of Real and is believed to be an admirer of the France international.

Varane, who has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge previously, has been unable to guarantee a regular starting place with Los Blancos this season due to the form of Pepe and Sergio Ramos.

It is thought that Mourinho is looking for long-term replacements for captain John Terry and fellow centre-back Gary Cahill.

According to the Daily Mail, the Portuguese coach plans to test Real's resolve to keep Varane by launching a bid for him at the end of the season.

Manchester United are also said to be interested in signing the defender.