Chelsea Transfer News: Jose Mourinho Wants 1 More Signing, Zhang Linpeng Rumours

There could be one last piece of business for Chelsea to wrap up as manager Jose Mourinho admits he isn't done making moves just yet, with China defender Zhang Linpeng interesting the Premier League champions.

Speaking to the media ahead of Saturday's tie against Crystal Palace, Mourinho said he's content with his squad, but would be happy to see another arrival before Tuesday's deadline, per the club's official Twitter account:

Everton centre-back John Stones has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in recent weeks and the Mirror's Darren Lewis reported on Thursday that a fourth bid of £37 million had been rejected.

When asked about the Stones saga on Friday, Mourinho was predictably coy in his response, according to the Press Association's Matt McGeehan:

With the Toffees seemingly unwilling to negotiate on the sale of Stones, it's been reported Chelsea will instead seek to seal the signature of Guangzhou Evergrande defender Linpeng.

That's according to Chinese outlet Titan, with quotes from the 26-year-old confirming he wants a move to Stamford Bridge after being offered a contract in west London, per Reuters (via Metro's Will Giles):

"

I’m very happy and very excited to finally have this formal invitation. I’ve worked hard and waited these five-six years for my dream of playing overseas, and finally have recognition from the English Premier League. 

Although I’m unable to play Premier League directly, I believe (Chelsea) will have the most professional arrangements regarding my permit. I have no worries at all about the negotiations.

"

Linpeng has earned 44 caps for China, won the 2013 AFC Champions League and has won the Chinese Super League with Guangzhou Evergrande for the last four years in succession.

According to Hong Kong-based football writer Andrew Mullen, Linpeng is more naturally suited as an attacking right-back rather than the central defender Chelsea are in apparent need of:

Ian Ransom of Reuters testifies to the player earning the nickname "Zhangmos" after being compared to Real Madrid and Spain defender Sergio Ramos, per the Daily Mail.

As mentioned in Giles' report, work permit complications mean Linpeng would need to spend time on loan elsewhere in Europe before he'd be permitted to turn out for the Premier League club.

Linpeng is rightly regarded as one of the more accomplished defenders in the Chinese Super League and there are few players in the Chinese national team who boast more international experience.

Chelsea are ready to break new ground by signing the Asian star, although it's uncertain as to how long it will be before Linpeng gets to make his impact in Chelsea colours.