Witsel joined Benfica from Standard Liege last summer, but the Belgium international has repeatedly been linked with a move to England.

The 23-year-old started both legs of Benfica's UEFA Champions League defeat by Chelsea in the quarter-finals and he has caught the eye of Ramires.

Former Benfica midfielder Ramires, who recently signed a new long-term contract at Stamford Bridge, is not surprised that Witsel is on his current club's radar.

Excellent

"It's known when a player stands out that Chelsea are eyeing him," said Ramires in the Portuguese media. "They're following Witsel and he's an excellent player.

"He's a player who can do very well in England."

Ramires also believes that full-back Maxi Pereira and attacker Nicolas Gaitan are two more Benfica players with the talent to make an impact in English football.

The Brazilian added: "I would also recommend signing Maxi Pereira because he's also a great player.

"Gaitan can shine in English football. He's an excellent player, one of the best in the world."