Chelsea Plot Bargain Deal for Long-time Midfielder Target - Report

Chelsea are reportedly weighing up a bargain move for Brazilian winger and long-time target Willian, after the player's current club Anzhi Makhachkala declared they are set to cut down on their expenses.

The big-spending Russian outfit, who are 13th in the league, have released a statement on their website, saying they have decided to change their current business strategy, involving signing high-profile players for massive transfer fees and wage packages, and will now look to balance the finances.

According to the Express, Chelsea are planning to take advantage of the situation and snap up Willian. The Blues have been chasing the 24-year-old for a couple of years now and now they have the opportunity to land him on a cut-price deal.

Willian joined Anzhi from Shakhtar Donestk in a €35m deal in January, after the Ukrainian side refused to sell the player to Chelsea as the west London side could not match his release clause. However, the midfielder recently reiterated his long-standing desire to play in the Premier League.

"I tried to leave Shakhtar for over a year, but couldn't do it. I had offers from big English clubs and from other places, but Shakhtar never accepted them. Anzhi were the only ones who agreed to pay for my release clause. I have enormous affection and respect for this club, but everybody knows that my dreams and desires haven't changed," Willian said.

With Anzhi looking to sell and Willian remaining keen on a move to England, Chelsea are understood to be hopeful of completing the deal for a bargain fee. On the other hand, the Mirror believes Tottenham Hotspur, who were previously linked to the player as well, are also considering an approach.

Meanwhile, the Express report claims William is not the only player the Blues will look to land from Anzhi and reports Jose Mourinho is also expected to move for Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o.

Mourinho had signed E'too for Inter Milan while he was in Italy and the forward played a key role in the Nerazzurri's domestic and European success, the following season. Chelsea are in the market for a forward but wantaway Manchester United star Wayne Rooney remains their top target.