Chelsea have reportedly made a £22.1 million bid to secure the services of Inter Milan striker Mauro Icardi, who is reportedly being targeted as a replacement for the ageing Didier Drogba.
The Blues have been linked with a move for the 22-year-old striker this season, with there being reports of the West London club already making contacts with Inter Milan to discuss a potential transfer.
And now, according to the Metro, Chelsea have submitted a £22.1 million bid for Icardi.
The Argentine, who completed a move from Sampdoria to Inter Milan for an undisclosed transfer fee in the summer of 2013, has been very impressive in this season with 18 goals in 32 Serie A appearances so far.
His good form has reportedly caught the attention of many top clubs, and Icardi has expressed his desire to leave the San Siro as he has refused to sign a new contract with the Serie A side.
The main reason behind him wanting to leave Inter Milan is due to his desire to play in the Champions League.
And the Blues will be able to give him Champions League football as they have already booked a seat in next season's competition after successfully securing the Premier League title on Sunday.
However, since the 22-year-old still has three more years remaining on his current contract, he will not be available at a cut-down price and due to this reason Chelsea have reportedly submitted a starting bid of £22.1 million.
Still Chelsea may be able to get the striker at a lesser price as Inter are reportedly very keen on signing goalkeeper Petr Cech this summer.
The 32-year-old goalkeeper will most likely leave Stamford Bridge after 11 years this summer due to him not wanting to spend another season at the West London club as Thibaut Courtois' understudy.
A host of club's including Arsenal, Liverpool and Roma are reportedly interested in securing the Czech goalkeeper's signature, but Chelsea may be tempted to include him in a player plus cash deal for Inter Milan's Icardi.
However, Cech may not be willing to move to Inter Milan as he too is reportedly looking to join a side that can offer him Champions League football.
