Chelsea are battling Crystal Palace for CSKA Moscow striker Fedor Chalov.
The Russian striker, 21, is rated as one of Europe's best youngsters after making his senior debut three-and-a-half years ago.
The Daily Star says Chelsea are long-term admirers and are known to be in the market for a new forward.
Roy Hodgson is still searching for a reliable No9 to lead the line at Selhurst Park.
And he is ready to offer Chalov an important role in his squad, which could give Palace the advantage over Chelsea.