Rumours this week suggested Chelsea's billionaire owner Roman Abramovich held two meetings with Ronaldinho's brother and adviser in a bid to persuade the Barcelona star to join the Blues in the Barclays Premier League.

Barca have dismissed those claims and with Friday's transfer deadline looming any deal would need to be done quickly.

England defender Terry is positive about the prospect - however distant - but was also cautious.

"It was exciting seeing the link with him and it would be a great acquisition to get a player of that ability in," Terry said.

"He would give us an option if he does come and it would be great for the Premier League to have a player like Ronaldinho here. He was close to going to Manchester United a few years ago but, for me personally and for everyone at Chelsea, it would be great to have him with us.

"I'd like to think he could fit into the team, though he'd have to learn about the defensive duties expected of everyone.

"We've got wide men going forward but they've got defensive responsibilities as well."

Terry added: "It takes players a month or so to learn that you have to track back and, if you don't, then you come off.

"Once you've realised that it's about a team and defending as well, you can attack as well and he can give us something that not many in the world can give us. I suppose if he's doing what he's so good at going forward, then perhaps the manager will let him off a little bit at the back, but we'd have to see."