PSV Eindhoven defender Alex has been granted a work permit by the Home Office.
The Brazil international has yet to agree personal terms or undergo a medical with Chelsea but has been linked with the Londoners´ for some time.
A statement on the Blues´ website, chelseafc.com, said: "At a hearing, Alex was granted a work permit. He still has to agree personal terms with Chelsea Football Club and have a medical."
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