Report: Chelsea sounding out Shakhtar Donetsk over availability of Douglas Costa

There's apparently still room for another midfielder at Stamford Bridge.

According to the Guardian, Chelsea are considering a £20-million bid for Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Douglas Costa in anticipation of losing at least one first-team player before the January transfer window closes.

While that might seem ridiculous given the depth of Chelsea' midfield, it wouldn't be all that surprising if Douglas opted to join the Premier League leaders as Chelsea scouted him as a teenager. However, a larger bid may be required since Shakhtar's valuation of the 24-year-old Brazilian is nearer to £30 million.

Douglas also addressed the potential move in conversation with Brazilian newspaper Globo this week, saying: "It's a dream to play for Chelsea, a unique opportunity. I am trying to negotiate (a departure)."

Through six Champions League appearances this season, Douglas has notched one goal and one assist while being a key component of the Ukrainian club's progression to the knockout stages, where they'll meet Bayern Munich in the round of 16.