Portugal's 'new Deco' tempting Chelsesa

Euro 2012 hopefuls Portugal aren't short of attacking talent, and alongside the likes of Ronaldo and Nani, the Iberians can count on the abilities of highly-rated midfielder Joao Moutinho.

 With the versatile Porto man recently letting Chelsea know he's available, our transfer spotlight has everything you need to know about the Blues target...

 Name: Joao Filipe Iria Santos Moutinho Date of birth: September 8, 1986 Birthplace: Portimao, Portugal Position: Midfielder Club: Porto International appearances: 45 Honours: UEFA Europa League winner (2010-11), Portuguese Primeira Liga (2010-11, 2011-12).

What's the latest? Former Chelsea coach Andre Villas-Boas was intent on brining Moutinho to Stamford Bridge, but after the Portuguese got the boot it looked like the Porto man's dream was over.

 Chelsea's interest was rekindled recently, however, when Moutinho announced he'd love a shot at the Premier League, letting the Blues know he's still around.

 Moutinho made more passes than any other Portugal player in their win over Denmark, and his stock is rising, so Chelsea should act fast if they want to pay less.

 Did you know? 1) Moutinho originally started out at home-town team Portimonense SC in the Algarve, but when the opportunity to move to Sporting Lisbon arose, his football-loving parents didn't think twice about relocating with the 13-year-old.

 2) Moutinho's time at the Sporting academy coincided with fellow graduates Nani and Cristiano Ronaldo. Other big names to learn their trade at Sporting include Simao, Ricardo Quaresma and Luis Figo.

 3) Moutinho followed in Ronaldo's footsteps by making his Sporting first-team debut at a young age, appearing as a 17-year-old in the 2004-05 pre-season. In 2005 he inherited Ronaldo's number 28 jersey.

 4) Moutinho is known for his versatility, and can play in a number of positions including defensive midfield, attacking midfield or on either flank.

 5) In 2008 Moutinho nearly made a move to Everton, but when the deal fell through he eventually transferred to Sporting's rivals Porto. Since then, he has been heavily criticised by his former club.

 He says “Every player wants to experiment with different leagues.


 Right now I'm happy because I'm playing in one of the biggest in Europe, but if a good opportunity arose we'd have to see.


 The Premier League? I can only say it's one of the best leagues in the world, but I haven't spoken with any club.”

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