Chelsea are making the first move for Standard Liege whizkid Axel Witsel.

The Mirror says Chelsea manager Luiz Felipe Scolari sent his top scout to check on the 19-year-old Standard Liege midfielder in last week's 1-0 UEFA Cup victory over Sevilla.

Scolari plans to move in January to try and lure Witsel to Stamford Bridge.

The Belgian international has already been watched on a regular basis by Arsenal boss Wenger's spies, and United were also present at the Sevilla match, along with at least another 25 scouts from England, Germany and Italy.

A source close to Liege said last night: "If Chelsea, or anyone else want to sign Witsel, they will have to pay what Everton paid for Fellaini. Liege do not need the money. The valuation would be at least £15m."