The lack of a playmaker seems to be sticking out like a sore thumb
from Chelsea's recent displays, and Avram Grant is determined to
put that right.
The Blues have now singled out Hamburg's Rafael van der Vaart, who
has been in red hot form once again this season, spearheading the
North German club's Uefa Cup and Bundesliga challenge.
The Dutchman - who moved from Ajax for a paltry 5.5 million euros
two-and-a-half years ago years ago - is rated very highly by
compatriot, Director of Football and Chief Scout Frank Arnesen, and
an offer in the region of 25 million euros could be enough to
convince Hamburg to sell.
It is also believed that his inclusion in the team will bring out
the best in Andriy Shevchenko, who played some of his best football
when he had Kaka behind him, and has since struggled with the
Blues' direct approach.
Grant is keen to settle on an attacking 4-3-3 with a creative
midfielder/forward in a roaming wide role, much like Cristiano
Ronaldo, Lionel Messi or Robinho seem to be working for their
respective clubs.