Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is ready to throw the bank at Atletico Madrid to land Radamel Falcao. The Daily Mail says Abramovich will make funds available for Roberto Di Matteo to recruit a new striker, and Atletico Madrid's prized asset is impressed by the European champions' ambition.

Manchester City and Real Madrid are also interested in the 26-year-old forward, who scored a stunning hat-trick against Chelsea in the European Super Cup. But Falcao said: "Chelsea are champions of Europe and there is not much more to say than that. Even after winning the Champions League they still go and sign players of the highest quality. Their ambition is clear.

"I would not be worried about the physical aspect of the Premier League. I have scored goals in Argentina, Portugal and now Spain. I am confident I can adapt my game to any league. I would welcome the challenge of the Premier League. I was also a big fan of Gianfranco Zola when I was growing up. I have watched the Premier League for a long time. There is so much quality and it is such an exciting league. Of course it is nice to think I might play in it."

Financial difficulties mean Atletico will almost definitely have to cash in on the 26-year-old, if not in January then the end of the season. There is a £48m release clause in Falcao's contract.

Chelsea will wait until the summer if necessary - such is the player's loyalty to Atletico he would first like to help them secure Champions League football.