Inter Milan fear Chelsea's interest is driving up the price for Corinthians midfielder Paulinho.

Inter could have signed the Brazil international for €8 million over the summer, but chose not to act. The Nerazzurri now want to buy Paulinho in January, but new interest from Chelsea has intermediaries concerned.

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, says Gazzetta dello Sport, has made contact with Corinthians to register his interest.

The Brazilians now rate Paulinho closer to €15 million and his recent return to the Selecao has also attracted the attention of Real Madrid.