Chelsea boss Luiz Felipe Scolari is keen for the club to join the battle for Fluminense defender Thiago Silva.

The Independent says Scolari has already recommended a move for Thiago Silva, who is available on a free transfer after running down his contract although he has also attracted interest from both Milan clubs and Villarreal.

This could lead to Alex's departure for Panathinaikos, after the Greek club, now coached by Chelsea's former assistant manager Henk Ten Cate, inquired about the Brazilian.