Chelsea are convinced they're ever closer to landing departing Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola.

The Daily Star says the former Barcelona boss is still the top choice of owner Roman Abramovich.

And Chelsea believe they are breaking down the Spaniard's resistance.

Abramovich's representatives are still talking to Guardiola, despite his intention to take a year off from football.

He has already rejected at least one offer from the European champions but the fact he has not shut the door on them has given the Russian billionaire renewed hope he can still get his man.

Those hopes grew yesterday when Guardiola admitted he could be open to persuasion.

"I will be ready once a club wants me. If they seduce me, I will train again," he said.