Chelsea's new owners are ramping up their plans to implement a multi-club model after entering talks to buy Portuguese side Portimonense.
Sportsmail revealed earlier this month that Todd Boehly, who became co-controlling owner at Stamford Bridge in May, held initial discussions with super agent Jorge Mendes over buying a Portuguese team in the summer.
The American made contact with Mendes and Chelsea's academy manager Neil Bath over the idea of purchasing a side in Portugal, having spoken of his desire to emulate Manchester City and the Red Bull football group by establishing a network of partner clubs across the globe.