Chelsea, Liverpool’s French Striker Target to Resolve Future Soon - Report

Chelsea and Liverpool are in a race to sign French international Bafetimbi Gomis. The 27-year-old Olympique Lyon forward is wanted by the two Premier League clubs and the French club's chairman, Jean-Michel Aulas, has confirmed he expects the situation to be resolved this month.

"Bafe has talked about Chelsea in the past as they seem a very prestigious club to him, but there are also other propositions. Of course, all the talk is about him moving to England, but there are other European clubs interested in him too. I'm sure things will begin to accelerate in the next couple of weeks and we expect things to be sorted soon," Aulas explained.

Gomis has been in excellent form for the former Ligue 1 champions, with 11 goals and three assists from his 20 league appearances so far. Lyon manager Bernard Lacombe is understandably frustrated at the thought of losing the forward. The striker has 18 months left on his contract at the Stade de Gerland.

"It's annoying if you lose the best players in the winter break, especially Bafe. [He] has been our most effective player since the beginning of the season. I spoke with the president, but when you have a financial problem, what can you do... "Lacombe told French newspaper L'Equipe.

Gomis, meanwhile, has admitted to being pleased with the interest from England and although he is keen on a move, the striker has also cautioned interested parties that a satisfactory deal for all involved is a must.

"I'm happy, but if it is for my interest, and the three parties are okay and I can progress, then yes. The interest is flattering. These are big names [Liverpool and Chelsea]. But I do not pollute my mind with the idea of a departure. Anything can go very quickly in football," the powerful centre forward said.

The Reds have already signed 23-year-old England international Daniel Sturridge from Chelsea and expect summer signing Fabio Borini to return from a long-term injury before the end of the season.