Chelsea's Ricardo Carvalho Sold to Real Madrid

Chelsea have confirmed that they have accepted a £6.7million bid for defender Ricardo Carvalho from Real Madrid.

The 32-year-old Portuguese centre-back will link up for a third time with Madrid boss Jose Mourinho.

Carvalho played under Mourinho at Porto before the former Inter and Chelsea manager paid £19.8million to bring the defender to London in 2004.

During his time in England, Carvalho formed a much coveted partnership with John Terry and was part of the core of Chelsea's most successful side.

He won three Premier League titles during his time at Stamford Bridge, as well as the FA Cup three times, the League Cup twice, and the Community Shield twice.

He made more than 200 appearances, scoring 11 times.

While the news will come as a blow to Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti and fans alike, it should come as no surprise.

Last month Carvalho was quoted as saying "If there was a possibility sign with Real Madrid, I would go there right now swimming or running."

A statement from Chelsea said that: "Chelsea would like to thank Riccy for his six years of service, and we wish him well in his future career."

With only days to go before the start of the new season, Chelsea will be reliant on Alex to partner Terry at the heart of the defence.

But the news that Carvalho will be leaving will surely only add to the rumours that Ancelotti is chasing Benfica's David Luiz.

Luiz, who apparently was a target of Mourinho's early in the summer, is seen as an ideal replacement and his speed and technical ability would compliment Terry well.

The 23-year-old was ever-present as Benfica won the Portuguese League last season, but could come at a price.

Manchester City are reportedly also interested in the Brazilian and if a bidding war were to ensue, Luiz's price could reach the £20million mark.