Chelsea boss Andre Villas Boas is ready to make an opening bid for AS Roma star Daniele de Rossi.
The Daily Star says Villas Boas is preparing to offer £18m for De Rossi.
Fears over the future of Michael Essien has prompted Villas-Boas to sign a world class midfielder.
Essien is fighting to save his career after a third serious knee injury in three years - and De Rossi is seen as the man to take his place in midfield.
The Italian International, who has only has a year left on his contract, has become disillusioned with life at the Olympic Stadium.
