Maicon
Chelsea want Inter Milan's Brazilian star Maicon Reuters

Chelsea are in advanced negotiations with Inter Milan for the services of wing-back Maicon, reports Sky Sport Italia.

The Brazilian's agent recently revealed his client was likely to end his six-year stint at the Giuseppe Meazza this summer. That led to speculation linking him with a move to Paris Saint-Germain and also a return to his homeland, with a host of Brasileirao clubs understood to be interested in his services.

However, Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo, who is believed to be keen on strengthening his options at right-back, has identified the 30 year old as an ideal candidate and is now determined to see off competition for the player's signature, reports Sky Sport Italia.

The European champions have limited options in that position after the departure of Jose Bosingwa. The future of Paulo Ferreira, who is in the last year of his contract with the west London outfit, also remains uncertain. If a move goes through, Maicon will become the third major signing of the summer for Blues who have already completed deals for the highly rated Eden Hazard and Marko Marin.

Meanwhile, Chelsea have decided to table an offer for Arsenal forward Theo Walcott, reports the Daily Mirror.

The 23 year old has only a year left on his contract with the Gunners, who have reportedly stalled talks over a new deal for the England international. The report says that Arsenal would be willing to accept a bid of around £15mn for Walcott, rather than lose him for free next year.

The Southampton academy product was one of England's top ­performers at the Euros, turning the game against Sweden on its head - with a goal and an assist - after coming on as a second half substitute. Walcott has been a target for Chelsea for some time now and after monitoring the player's situation closely for the past few months, the Blues are now set to make an official approach for him.

Walcott made 35 league appearances last season, scoring eight goals and making eight assists and the England international's age and reputation in Europe make him one of Arsenal's most coveted assets.