Chelsea step up 36m move for Di Maria as Manchester City and United eye star

Peter Kenyon's presence in Lisbon has fuelled reports that Angel di Maria is set for a £36million summer move to Chelsea. Former Blues' chief executive Kenyon, who still represent the club on international business, is said to be leading negotiations for the much-coveted Benfica winger. Both Manchester United and City - as well as Spanish giants Barcelona, Real Madrid - have also been linked with Di Maria after a series of impressive performances for the Portuguese giants. Red alert: Angel di Maria (left) has impressed for Benfica But Chelsea are said to be leading the race for the 22-year-old Argentina international. 'It is true I stayed in Lisbon in answer to your question, but I will not offer more details,' is all that Kenyon would tell Portuguese sports newspaper O Jogo. 'Is Di Maria a footballer of interest to us? I have no comment to make.'  Ashley Cole offered Spanish escape route as Barcelona and Real Madrid line up £25m bidsJose Mourinho is a joke! All of Italy will cheer Chelsea, says Carlo AncelottiJose saved my career! Deco praises former Chelsea boss ahead of clashDES KELLY: It's Jose vs the world! Italians are fed up with the Inter bossCHELSEA FC