Chelsea are preparing to take on Manchester United in a battle to sign Benfica defender Victor Lindelof, according to The Mirror.

What's the story?

United have been linked with the 22-year-old centre-back for some time, but conflicting reports have raised questions over the transfer.

At the start of the month, Sky Sports claimed that Jose Mourinho eased his pursuit of Lindelof as he was not in desperate need of defensive cover.

However, rumours of a potential £38m deal have not yet died down, and now The Mirror reports that Chelsea have entered the mix.

It is believed that Blues manager Antonio Conte has placed Lindelof at the top of his summer wishlist, while Inter Milan are also said to be tracking the young defender.

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Which club would Lindelof suit?

The Swede has versatility given that he has played at right-back as well as in the centre of defence during his career.

The ability to switch positions would be vital for either Chelsea or United, but at Stamford Bridge, Conte has formed a solid back line of Gary Cahill, Cesar Azpilicueta and David Luiz.

With that in mind, Lindelof may have to fight for a place in the team, who currently have a 10-point lead at the top of the Premier League table.

Mourinho has tinkered with his defenders over the course of the season, and with Eric Bailly impressing following his move from Villarreal last summer, Lindelof could be part of a solid partnership.

As well as having the mobility to play in a variety of positions at the back, the Swedish player has pace and discipline, as he rarely gives away cheap fouls in dangerous areas.

The defender is highly rated and both Chelsea and United would benefit with having him in their ranks, but Old Trafford might be the better destination at this stage of his career.

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