Chelsea transfer rumours: Madrid to fight Chelsea for Falcao as Barca reject Villa bid

Chelsea is set to have to fight it out with Real Madrid if they are to land their number one target this summer. Porto striker, Falcao, is at the top of Chelsea's wish list but reports in the Sun today claim that Real Madrid are to enter the race to sign the Columbian forward. The paper claims that it will be the first battle between new Chelsea boss, Andre Villas-Boas and Chelsea favourite Jose Mourinho. Both clubs are said to be so keen on the player, that they are willing to pay the full £26.5m to trigger his release clause. The decision after that would be Falcao's, with a move to Stamford Bridge and a reunion with Villas Boas his preferred choice. However, the lure of working with Jose Mourinho as well as playing for the most famous club in world football is something that is said to worry Chelsea executives.

Reports in the Mirror claim that Barcelona has rejected a sensational offer from Chelsea for striker David Villa. The striker, who scored in the Champions League final against Manchester United is said to be wanted by both Chelsea and Manchester City, with the London club making the first move. Barcelona are said to have rejected the coffer out of hand and have told the London club to return when they are willing to pay the full buyout clause of David Villa's contract. That figure stands at a whopping£178m, a figure Chelsea will not go anywhere near to. Chelsea are said to have ended their interest but as money becomes tighter at Barcelona, Chelsea could find a larger bid would tempt the Catalan club to part with Villa.

The Daily Mail reports that Galatasaray will allow Arda Turan to join Chelsea for £7m but want Didier Drogba in return. The left winger has been the subject of recent transfer speculation and the club have been alerted to the player by former coach Guus Hiddink. It could also represent a last pay day for Didier Drogba as he prepares to end his stay at Stamford Bridge.

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