Chelsea transfer rumour: Gonzalo Higuain earmarked to replace Diego Costa in January

Chelsea are set to step up their interest in Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuain to replace Diego Costa in January, who has been in abysmal form this campaign. The Spaniard has hit the headlines more often for his antics off the pitch than on it this season and Jose Mourinho is looking at viable alternatives for someone to add the firepower up front.

The Mirror reports that Mourinho has the support of the management and will be given enough money to undertake a complete overhaul, which would mean that a lot of players in the current team would be fighting for their place next season. The Blues are currently 15 points off the top of the table behind Manchester City and Arsenal, which has all but ended their dreams of retaining their title.

Mourinho is now looking to address the lacunae in his current setup and Costa, who has scored only two goals thus far, has been identified as the main culprit. Costa's problems have been exacerbated by an injury to Radamel Falcao who is out till the end of the month and Loic Remy's indifferent form, which has put further pressure on the former Atletico Madrid man to perform.

Napoli would be unwilling to sell midway through the season but Chelsea believe that a sizeable offer should be enough to get the deal over the line before the end of the transfer window. Moreover, their current league position means that it will be extremely difficult for them to secure a Champions League spot, which would make it even more cumbersome for them to attract big talent.

However, they will be boosted by Higuain's decision to reject a contract extension with the Serie A giants, opening up a route for a transfer to the Premier League. Arsenal and Manchester United were also linked by Corriere Dello Sport with a move for the player in the summer but are yet to make an official bid to complete a deal.

Mourinho himself is under the cosh for his team's performances with Diego Simeone being mentioned as the one to replace him next summer. The manager has lost seven of his last 12 games in the league and currently finds himself only three points clear of the relegation zone.