The rumours are circulating about who will be Chelsea‘s next big signing, so who will be the new blood to ensure the goals start flowing again.
There are three names currently in the frame to make the move to Stamford Bridge, first is Santos’ Neymar, then there is teenage sensation Romelu Lukaku and finally Palermo’s Javier Pastore.
It is thought that Chelsea are very close to signing Neymar, the Santos striker has already represented Brazil despite only being 19-years-old.
The young striker grabbed everyone’s attention after an excellent 2010, when he scored 43 goals in 63 games and made his Brazilian debut.
It is thought that his agent is in London holding transfer talks, Chelsea officials will want to get a deal completed as soon as possible as there are rumours that Barcelona may also make a move for him.
Romelu Lukaku has constantly impressed since breaking into the Anderlecht side, in his first full season he scored 15 goals in 33 games and then this season he managed 16 in 37.
Shelling out £23 million for a 18-years-old may seem a lot, but this youngster is very talented and well worth the money. He has scored twice for the Belgium national team in nine starts, and is one for the future.
Another option is Argentine Javier Pastore, the attacking midfield player is seen as a long-term replacement for Frank Lampard, but is ready to play first-team football immediately.
In a struggling Palermo team this season he still managed to score 11 goals in 34 starts, and on the 14th November he grabbed his first ever hat-trick in his side’s 3-1 derby win over Catania.
It is believed that the Blues have tabled a substantial bid of around £33 million, which has been rejected due to his minimum release fee being £44 million – A figure that Palermo owner Maurizio Zamparini is holding out for.
Like the other two players Chelsea are chasing, there is expected to be a lot of competition for Pastore’s signature with Manchester City being known admirers as well as big clubs in Italy and Spain keen to sign him.
By Scott Balaam
Twitter @theshed11