Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson remains keen on Everton superkid Ross Barkley. Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas is planning a £20 million offer for the 17 year-old midfielder.
The Mirror says Chelsea are convinced about the teen - a discovery of super-scout Mick Doherty, who quit Everton for the west London club a few weeks ago.
Blues boss David Moyes knows he faces a ferocious fight to keep Barkley, and Everton owner Bill Kenwright will also be reluctant to do business, but Chelsea are willing to pay hard cash and will outbid any rivals to land such a top talent.
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has made a personal check too, having been tipped off that Barkley may have to be sold, but Chelsea are primed to go in harder for him than the champions are.
It would be a huge psychological blow for Everton to lose their latest 'find', but if the cash went on signing players rather than on balancing the books, that could be a consolation for Moyes.
