Chelsea are ready to almost double Lautaro Martinez’s wages in order to sign him, according to reports.
The Argentine forward is being linked with a move to Barcelona from Inter Milan, who are ready to sell him.
The Express have picked up on a story by Spanish outlet Sport which claimed that Chelsea and Manchester City are willing to offer Martinez huge wages.
It is claimed that both Premier League clubs are offering him almost £9m a year, which is apparently almost twice his Inter salary.
Sport also say, however, that Martinez has set his heart on a move to Barca and is still likely to join them.
Martinez would fit the bill for Chelsea
Chelsea boss Frank Lampard has made no secret of his desire to sign a forward, having been unable to do so during the January transfer window.
Lampard feels the Blues have dropped crucial points this season because of their failure to take chances during matches they have dominated for long periods.
There is also the likelihood that Lampard will have to replace Olivier Giroud, who is expected to leave when his contract expires this summer.
And with Michy Batshuayi also potentially on the move, Chelsea will definitely need to bring in attacking players when the transfer window opens.
Martinez is just 22 and has impressed for Inter, so looks like he would be a good investment.
At the moment, though, reports suggests he is likely to join Barcelona rather than head to Stamford Bridge.