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Chelsea Plan €28m Raid For Valencia Striker David Villa

The Stamford Bridge outfit are the latest big name to join the race for 'El Guaje'...

Nov 1, 2009 12:48:23 PM

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Premier League side Chelsea will attempt to lure Valencia striker David Villa to England with a €28 million bid in January, according to reports.

Publication The News of the World believes that the London club will challenge the recent transfer embargo bestowed on them by governing body FIFA, and if their appeal is successful, then their first port of call will be to the Mestalla to snap up the Spanish international.

Blues coach Carlo Ancelotti is thought to be an admirer of the man known as ‘El Guaje’, and will battle for his signature with Barcelona, Real Madrid and Manchester United, who have all been previously linked with the prolific hit-man.

Valencia rejected bids in excess of €40m during the summer despite Los Che’s dire financial predicament, but they will be required to raise funds in the year ahead through the sale of their prized assets.

Chelsea are likely to make their move for the former Real Zaragoza forward in January, as the African Nations Cup will see participants Didier Drogba, Salomon Kalou, Michael Essien and John Obi Mikel all missing for a substantial period.

Villa finished as leading goalscorer during Euro 2008, and last season he netted 28 Primera Division goals to help Los Che clinch a Europa League spot.

Paul Macdonald, Goal.com