Sneijder, Kaka, Pastore, Ganso, Eriksen – Chelsea can’t buy them all

Signing a midfield schemer certainly seems to be one thing on the agenda of Chelsea based on the latest rumours surrounding the club as they look to defy Premier League odds of 2/1 to win the title next season.

Although Frank Lampard has provided his fair share of assists in recent Premier League seasons and certainly been a vital source of goals, Chelsea appear to be targeting a player with a keener eye for that killer pass and someone with a touch more flair.

Juan Sebastien Veron and Deco are players previously bought by Chelsea to play this role, but with varying levels of success.

However, numerous other names are now being mentioned as the latest to shine in this position.

Wesley Sneijder has been the most talked about target, particularly following speculation that potential future manager Guus Hiddink earmarked the Dutchman as his leading target should he eventually sign.

Certain rumours suggest that Chelsea would be prepared to offer some of their players to Inter Milan as part of a deal for Sneijder, with Michael Essien and Florent Malouda among the names mentioned.

Meanwhile, the latest reports coming out of Italy suggest that Chelsea have tabled a bid of €35m.

However, Sneijder is not the only player of this nature to have interested Chelsea in recent months.

Kaka has struggled for opportunities at Real Madrid and could be allowed to move on, while his fellow Brazilian Paulo Henrique Ganso has impressed many of the top European clubs with his playmaking performances for Santos.

Elsewhere, highly-rated Argentine Javier Pastore has been linked with Stamford Bridge and Chelsea may be preparing a second bid having already reportedly had an offer turned down by Palermo.

Palermo are standing by their minimum valuation of the player of €50m.

The latest name to be linked is Danish protégée Christian Eriksen, who is considered the next big thing at Ajax.

Eriksen starred for Denmark against England in February and could become even more sought after if producing similar displays during the upcoming European under-21 Championships, at which Chelsea are sure to have scouts in attendance.