Chelsea are eyeing up a summer deal for Marseille midfielder Gianelli Imbula – as Jose Mourinho looks to replace John Obi Mikel.

Imbula was a target for the Blues at the end of last season, but after failing to agree a fee with Guingamp, he eventually signed for Marseille.

The 21-year-old has since continued his progress in French football – and Mourinho is plotting a new bid to bring him to Stamford Bridge when the window re-opens.

According to RMC, Imbula is seen as a long-term replacement for Nigerian midfielder Obi Mikel, who has been told he can leave Chelsea for a small fee.

Any agreement for Imbula will likely cost Chelsea in excess of £15million, but Marseille are keen to raise cash to buy a striker, so are open to doing business.