Jose Mourinho writes a weekly column entitled 'Hotel Chelsea' for the Portuguese sports daily 'Record'.

In this section read a translated summary of Mourinho's fascinating insights.

31 December 2005

Maniche fits the bill

There’s no hiding the fact that Maniche is close to becoming a Chelsea player. Tiago left, as did Smertin. Both are good players who had different reasons for leaving.

As we were half way through August we decided not to strengthen an area that we knew could be a little short on options in a long season with lots of competitions, suspensions, injuries, international call-ups and the African Nations Cup.

The transfer window is coming up and it has proved necessary to strengthen. I didn’t have to think much. I’m seeking a player who knows me in depth and adapts like a “click”, who plays at high intensity, both in possession and when defending, with huge motivation, who was not used by his previous club in the Champions League, self-confident, experienced and multi-functional in the three midfield positions. The conclusion was immediate: Maniche, the best option, bringing together all the requirements defined.

The man’s found, all that’s missing is the most difficult part - the negotiations between Dynamo Moscow and Chelsea, which are not over as we are trying to come up with a deal that will suit all parties involved.

I’m waiting patiently but I don’t hide the fact that I would like Maniche and Maniche can become an historic player in my career - the only one to play under me at three different clubs, Benfica, Porto and Chelsea.

Makelelé, Lampard, Essien, the lad Diarra who is still learning and developing, the adaptations of Joe Cole or Eidur Gudjohnsen if need be. Maniche would be the final piece to ensure stability in a core sector.

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