Chelsea boss Luiz Felipe Scolari has made a transfer cash plea ahead of the January market.

The Sun says Scolari TWICE asked club chiefs for a new striker to stop their slump.

But billionaire owner Roman Abramovich and chief executive Peter Kenyon stood firm on their vow not to spend in this transfer window.

That has left Scolari worried about his chances of winning a major prize this season after just one victory in five Premier League games.

A source close to the Brazilian said: "Sometimes the best way to re-energise a team is to inject fresh blood, that's all he asked for.

"Felipe was promised funds to buy before he joined. Everyone knows he wanted Robinho and what happened there.

"He knows financial situations have changed. But he is not asking for £20million, just a reasonable amount to get a new player in."

Scolari spent just £8m in the summer, bringing in Portuguese playmaker Deco from Barcelona.

Scolari wanted Brazilian striker Robinho but he joined Manchester City in a £32.5m deal.

It remains unlikely that Chelsea will spend in January unless Alex leaves.