Chelsea are closing in on Benfica defender David Luiz.

The Mirror says the 22-year-old is regarded as one of his nation's top prospects and has also attracted interest from Manchester United and Real Madrid. The £10million-rated centre-half fits the bill for Ancelotti as he looks to freshen up an ageing squad.

Captain John Terry has looked vulnerable, and his ­defensive partner has ­alternated between veteran Ricardo Carvalho and Brazilian Alex. Luiz, who is under contract at Benfica until 2015, would bring youth to the back four and Chelsea had scouts watch him in the Europa League against Hertha Berlin.

Chelsea are also interested in Luiz's club-mate, Angel Di Maria, 22. They have made discreet enquiries about the Argentinian winger .