The 18 year-old has been a revelation in Brazil's top flight for Botafogo, making 31 appearances so far and attracting Porto, Benfica and Tottenham's interest.
Tottenham director Franco Baldini is keen to purchase Doria because he reckons that he will become better than last season's buy Marquinhos during his tenure at Roma.
But Chelsea could now spoil the show with the Blues making an official bid for the central defender.
It is believed that he could be sent on loan straight away with Chelsea already well stocked at the back but could be persuaded to join with the likes of Oscar, Wallace, David Luiz, Ramires and Lucas Piazon already at the club.