Despite reported interest from Arsenal and Manchester United, it is Chelsea that have made their first move for highly-rated Borussia Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski.
Lewandowski has made his admiration for the English Premier League clear, stating several times about his dream to play in England one day. The 23-year-old is one of Europe's most sought after strikers, having fired 22 goals for Dortmund last season, leading them to a league and cup double.
Chelsea already have Fernando Torres in their ranks, but want to add another striker capable of providing the Spaniard some competition. Napoli forward Edinson Cavani was understood to be their first choice, but now according to ESPN, the Blues have turned their attentions to Lewandowski.
"Chelsea have been offered Cavani, but not everybody at the club thinks he is the right player to suit their formation. The Polish centre-forward is the one the club bid for, but the offer was rejected," a source told ESPN.
The bid is believed to be around £17 million ($26.5 million). However, it is understood Dortmund would be ready to discuss a sale, if they receive an offer of over £20 million ($31.2 million).
Meanwhile, another Chelsea target Willian expressed his disappointment at Shakhtar Donetsk rejecting an offer from the Blues.
Shakhtar manager Mircea Lucescu claimed they had rejected a €34 million (£26.6 million, $41.5 million) bid from Chelsea for Willian; however, the Brazilian winger said the correct amount was a little lower than what was quoted.
"I don't know what the coach said, but the correct value was €25million," he told Globo Esporte.
"But regardless of the value, of course I really wanted to play for a club like Chelsea, a club that won the Champions League.
"I'm really annoyed that the board didn't let me go. It would have been good for me and for the club too.
"I'd play in a big league and would be able to grow as a player. This is not a message to anyone; everyone knows I want to leave."
Willian said he was still hopeful of a deal being agreed, despite Chelsea closing in on the signing of compatriot Oscar. "Chelsea had already reached an agreement regarding Oscar when they made that last offer to sign me.
"I'm sure it won't be a problem as we are different kinds of players. He is more like a playmaker and I am more like an attacking midfielder.
"But it's a matter of waiting. A lot can still happen."
