Aurelio Sanchez, father of Real Betis star Joaquin, has confirmed that he held talks with Chelsea over a possible summer move to Stamford Bridge.

Although the player is understood to prefer a move to Real Madrid, Chelsea are in a position to outbid the Spanish club.

“He wants to go to Madrid very much but, if that does not happen or they only offer half of what Chelsea have, then we will have no alternative other than to go to London,” Sanchez told Diario de Sevilla.

“The newspapers are very sensationalist there, although I do not know that Chelsea will return for Joaquin because they have already had two offers rejected.

“Although Betis are a big club, I always tell Joaquin that a football career is short and he has the ability to be one of the best players.

“Betis would also benefit from any deal, logically, although it is Joaquin who is delaying and it is he who must decide.

“Joaquin’s transfer is in the air but it is certain. Every team would want him.

“At 24, he is getting better and better and he does not have major injuries because of his powerful physique.

“He will cost a lot fo money, although I do not know how much.

“If it is true that Madrid offer only half of what Chelsea are offering then things will be clear. But it will be different if it is only a bit less.

“Although things will be decided by both Betis and Joaquin, it will be more down to Joaquin than [Sevilla president Manuel Ruiz de] Lopera.”