
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.