Shakhtar Donetsk forward Douglas Costa had admitted his desire to join Chelsea and work with Jose Mourinho.
The midfielder has emerged as a January transfer target for the Blues as he looks to reinforce his attacking options ahead of a Premier League title challenge.
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has made two efforts to sign the Brazilian in recent weeks with a latest bid rejected as the Ukrainian side hold out for a fee in excess of £22m for the 24-year-old.
Now, in what seems to be an effort to push through a move, Costa has spoken of his desire to work with Mourinho, telling GloboEsporte: “To play at Chelsea is a dream for any player, it is standing next to some of the best players in the world and competing with the world’s best as well.
“But really, what catches my eye is the coach. He is a very intelligent coach and has been victorious wherever he went. One of the things that would make me happier to act at Chelsea would be this.”
Costa then talked up the efforts of Shakhtar boss Mircea Lucescu, before adding that he feels Mourinho will help further improve his ability.
“I learned a lot here with Lucesc,” he added. “I arrived at Shakhtar aged 19 and he taught me a lot. I am very grateful. But I also know that with Mourinho at Chelsea, my progress would be even greater.
“He has won just about everything. He is among the best, if not the best. He is at the top.”