Chelsea Approach CSKA Moscow for Georgi Schennikov as Luke Shaw Desires Manchester United Move

Chelsea are reportedly ready to start negotiations with CSKA Moscow for the transfer of Georgi Schennikov during the summer transfer window.

The Metro's report claims that the Blues manager Jose Mourinho desperately wanted to sign Luke Shaw from Southampton. But the Portuguese tactician has decided to abandon his pursuit of the England international, who prefers a move to Manchester United.

Ashley Cole is set to leave Stamford Bridge when his contract expires on 30 June and the future of Ryan Bertrand too looks uncertain. Mourinho opted to deploy Cesar Azpilicueta for most of the 2013/14 campaign as a left-back. The 51-year-old is now looking to strengthen his squad with a natural left-footed player to fill the void.

Earlier reports have suggested that Shaw has expressed his desire to the Saints' hierarchy to be a part of the incoming Red Devils manager Louis van Gaal's revolution at Old Trafford. United are believed to be ready to meet Southampton's £30m asking price and offer the youngster a contract worth £100,000-a-week.

Schennikov has established himself as one of the key players in the CSKA's starting XI since making his debut in 2009. The Russian international played a vital role in the last two seasons as Leonid Slutsky's side successfully defended their Russian Premier League title.

The 23-year-old made 39 appearances in all competitions, scoring one goal and contributing two assists in the process last season. He has featured four times for his country so far and is currently on World Cup duty in Brazil as Fabio Capello's side take on Korea, Belgium and Algeria in Group H.

However, Mourinho could be unconvinced about shelling out a staggering amount for Shaw and as the report suggests, the former Inter Milan boss is preparing to offer £7m to initiate proceedings with the Russian outfit to acquire Schennikov's services.

The Metro's report also reveals that CSKA had rejected approaches from Real Madrid and AC Milan in the past but could entertain Chelsea's offer for the left-back. The west London club are expecting to begin talks with the reigning Russian champions in the coming weeks and are hoping to swiftly arrive at a successful conclusion of the transfer.