Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo refused to be drawn out on the increased speculation surrounding the signing of Brazilian youngster Oscar, but admitted his admiration for the player.
Chelsea have reportedly had a £25 million ($39 million) bid accepted, after increasing their bid from £20 million ($31.2 million), which was rejected earlier. Reports have also suggested the 20-year-old was released from the Brazil Olympic squad to have a medical at Chelsea's training ground.
However, Di Matteo was hesitant to reveal much on the current situation. "I can tell you that he's not a Chelsea player so it's difficult for me to talk about a player that doesn't belong to us," Di Matteo told reporters in the US.
"I know there has been speculation we are interested in this player and in due course if there is anything to announce we will do.
"All I would say is that he is a very young, talented midfield player."
Di Matteo said Florent Malouda was back with team, despite speculation surrounding the Frenchman's departure. Malouda was reportedly close to a move to Brazilian club Santos, but the former Lyon player's wage demands snuffed out all chances.
"Players are now slowly returning, Malouda was back today and we expect the others to come when we are on the east coast.
"I still haven't had a chance to speak to Florent, so I need to speak to him first and see what his intentions are, then we will see what the best interests are for him and the club.
"At the moment I am very happy with the squad. We have a good squad, a very good team and have new players with us already. Our job is to try and integrate them into a team that was very successful last season."
Meanwhile, Shakhtar Donetsk coach Mire Lucescu revealed they had rejected a €34 million (£26.6 million, $41.5 million) offer from Chelsea for Willian, a player, the coach considers to be better than Eden Hazard.
"They paid a lot of money for Hazard but are not willing to pay for Willian, even though he's better in my opinion, Lucescu told Dolce Sport.
"Chelsea want to buy the Brazilian but made an offer for the eastern European market. They offered €34m but we don't think that's his current value."
Lucescu admitted they were prepared to let the 24-year-old go, but only for the right price. "I told Willian he can leave, but only if the right offer is made. He's a great player.
"Willian was the biggest investment Shakhtar have made in a young player, we have to respect that."
