Chelsea have entered the race to sign Germany World Cup star Mesut Ozil.
Manchester United are also keen on the Werder Bremen playmaker, while Barcelona are considering him after missing out on Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas.
The Catalans' pressing urgency to sign a holding midfielder and a belief that Fabregas will sign in 12 months had seemingly left United the favourites to try to prise Ozil from Bremen.
But it has emerged that Chelsea have stepped up their bid after being frustrated in moves for other players.
A poor showing in pre-season, culminating in a 3-1 Community Shield defeat by Manchester United, has shown Carlo Ancelotti that he needs to strengthen.
Ozil has a year left on his contract and is unlikely to sign an extended deal.
Real Madrid have reportedly said they will offer him a bumper deal next summer if he sits tight and signs for them on a free next year.
However, Chelsea have held talks over the last 48 hours between intermediaries, with Serb agent Vlado Lemic leading the Blues bid, according to The Times.
Barcelona's initial interest stalled on their valuation for Ozil of just £8.5million, with more promised as add-ons, while Bremen want at least £12m up front.
Lemic apparently has the trust of Stamford Bridge owner Roman Abramovich and is working closely with Frank Arnesen, the Chelsea sporting director - as well as having good contacts in Germany and a strong relationship with Bremen general director Klaus Allofs.
The Barclays Premier League champions have already agreed a deal to sign Benfica midfielder Ramires, which should be completed after the international break, but Ozil is a more attacking option.
Deco, Joe Cole and Michael Ballack have all left west London this summer and Ancelotti has set about renewing his midfield.