After weeks of interest, multiple sources have confirmed that Chelsea have tabled a formal bid for Federico Valverde. The Real Madrid midfielder has been attracting interest from across the league in recent weeks, with an opening offer marking a clear intent to get the deal done before the market intensifies. But it remains to be seen whether this opening bid will be enough to tempt a move away. While Liverpool, Manchester City and Tottenham have shown interest, Chelsea currently lead the race - though the situation could evolve if a deal drags on. So far this season, Chelsea are steady at both ends (1.62 goals scored per game, 1.14 goals conceded per game). The role for Federico Valverde would be to keep that balance while lifting performances across the pitch. Alongside this, Real Madrid are said to be exploring Gabriel Martinelli, Nico Schlotterbeck and Kees Smit with Chelsea likewise connected to Jacobo Ramon Naveros, Mateus Mane and Trent Alexander-Arnold. More on this story as it develops. Need more Chelsea transfer rumours? Follow @PlayerSwitchCom on Twitter for up-to-the-minute news from Chelsea.