Chelsea emerge as favourites to sign former Manchester United target Felipe Anderson

Chelsea have emerged as the new favourites to sign former Manchester United target Felipe Anderson from Lazio, according to reports.

Anderson, 23, emerged as a major target for United under Louis van Gaal's reign in charge. In January, Lazio revealed they had turned away a huge €50m (then £37.6m) offer for the Brazilian winger, an offer also later confirmed by the player.

The Serie A club succeeded in holding onto a player who at the time was one of their most prized assets. Things have changed, however, with Gazzetta World now reporting Lazio are ready to cash in on the player, with Antonio Conte's Chelsea are now favourites to sign him.

According to Gazzetta, Lazio's change of heart has been prompted by Anderson's decision to change agents in recent weeks, aligning himself with Giuliano Bertolucci the influential Brazilian who also has close ties with Kia Joorabchian.

Chelsea and Bertolucci are no strangers. The agent also represents Alexandre Pato and helped broker the Brazilian's move to Stamford Bridge last summer. He also represents current Blues midfielders Oscar and Willian.

Anderson's stock has dropped dramatically since United's failed attempts to sign him. The winger enjoyed a very promising second half of the 2014-15 season, helping fire Lazio into Champions League qualification, only for the club to fall short in the play-offs.

Last season he failed to measure up to those standards, scoring just seven goals and registering four assists. United's interest in the player faded last season and has ended completely since Jose Mourinho's arrival at Old Trafford.

Chelsea have made one signing so far this summer in Belgium international Michy Batshuayi. New manager Conte will lead the team in training this week before they depart for the start of their preseason campaign on Friday.