Hot property: Javier Mascherano has been courted by Europe's biggest clubs after another consistent season at AnfieldChelsea face competition from Inter Milan in their bid to sign Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano.
The Blues are considering a double swoop for the Argentina captain and his Anfield team-mate Yossi Benayoun this summer.
However, Inter Milan have now joined Juventus in leading the charge from Italy for Mascherano, who has seen contract talks drag despite expressing a desire to remain at the club.
The former West Ham United player is concerned at the club's financial position and continued doubts over the future of boss Rafa Benitez.
Barcelona tried to lure him from Liverpool last summer, though they are now concentrating on signing Cesc Fabregas from Arsenal.
Inter have also targetted Steven Gerrard, though boss Jose Mourinho's defection to Real Madrid has seen that particular interest also shift to the Bernabeu.
But Mascherano perfectly fits the character of the newly crowned European champions, who have a clutch of Argentina internationals at the San Siro.
Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti is looking at midfield reinforcements as they prepare to let go of Deco and Juliano Belletti. Michael Ballack and Joe Cole could also leave, though both remain in talks over a new contract.
End of the line: Steven Gerrard is considering his future at Liverpool, claiming his career is 'at a crossroads'Barcelona's Yaya Toure is another contender for Chelsea, though they face competition from Manchester City and others.
Liverpool don't want to sell to Chelsea but if the financial offer is bold enough they may have little choice with Benitez's budget almost non-existent.
Benayoun is hoping to discuss a move to Stamford Bridge for around £6m this week.
The 30-year-old Israel international said: 'Ancelotti wants me for next season and now everything depends on Liverpool. Chelsea will have to pay some £6m but I believe that in the end I'll be moving there.'
source: dailymail
