Report: Chelsea make offer for China international right-back Zhang Linpeng

Chelsea have made an offer to sign China international defender Zhang Linpeng, according to reports.

The London side are looking to wrap up a deal for the 26-year-old Guangzhou Evergrande right-back before the end of the transfer window, according to Chinese outlet Titan, with Jose Mourinho seeking further back-up for Branislav Ivanovic.

"I'm very happy and very excited to finally have this formal invitation," Zhang is quoted as saying by the newspaper.

"I've worked hard and waited these five-six years for my dream of playing overseas, and finally have recognition from the English Premier League."

Zhang signed for Chinese Super League champions Guangzhou Evergrande in 2010 and has since made 144 appearances, scoring 13 goals.