The Stamford Bridge outfit know City have to wheel and deal to bring in new players for Mark Hughes and this could be the perfect time to try and snatch Sturridge.
Blues talent-spotter Frank Arnesen has been after Sturridge since he took the job and the Londoners almost got him to quit City before he'd signed a pro contract.
Chelsea ran the rule over Sturridge in UEFA Cup action last night and City could find a huge offer too good to refuse, especially with owner Thaksin Shinawatra's assets currently frozen in Thailand.
