Alex Teixeira to Chelsea: Blues monitoring Shakhtar Donetsk forward ahead of possible January transfer

Jose Mourinho is expected to strengthen his side when the window next opens

Alex Teixeira (GETTY IMAGES)

Chelsea are monitoring Shakhtar Donetsk forward Alex Teixeira.

With the Blues suffering yet another loss in the shambolic defence of their Premier League title over the weekend, the need for reinforcements in January is growing.

The Independent understands that owner Roman Abramovich is willing to make significant funds available in January amid a belief that the current squad is too small, leading to an over reliance on core players.

Mourinho has made no secret of his desire to sign a centre-back, having pursued Everton's John Stones for much of last summer, but it's understood he also wants to freshen up his attacking options.

With Diego Costa named on the bench for Chelsea's last two matches after a poor run of form, Loic Remy failing to be seen as anything more than an impact substitute and Radamel Falcao unwanted at Stamford Bridge there is clearly room for an additional option at the club.

Any pursuit of Teixeira has been boosted by Shakhtar Donetsk's elimination from the Champions League - although Chelsea must secure a place in the knock-out phase themselves to make that a selling point to the 25-year-old.

Teixeira has been in excellent form this season with the Brazilian netting 10 goals in nine appearances, including a double against Real Madrid in the Champions League.