Chelsea have been told they must wait to sign Sao Paulo midfielder Lucas.

The Telegraph says Chelsea are in talks to sign Lucas Moura, one of the rising stars of Brazilian football, who is understood to have an €80 million (£66.8 million) release clause in his contract at Sao Paulo.

Although Chelsea are not now expected to make a bid before the January transfer window closes on Tuesday - and never intended offering anywhere near the release clause amount for the 19 year-old attacking midfielder - it is understood that they will renew their interest in the summer if a more reasonable fee can be discussed.

Lucas has been regarded as the top target of Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas, who has exhausted every avenue in attempting to persuade Sao Paulo to agree to a deal over the last few weeks.