Chelsea are back in for long-term target Hulk, with Jose Mourinho identifying the Brazilian international as the ideal candidate after the Blues missed out on the signing of Radamel Falcao, who chose to join Monaco.
Hulk-to-Chelsea was one of the biggest stories during last summer's transfer window, with the 26-year-old eventually making a big-money move to Russian club Zenit St. Petersburg.
Third party ownership was the major factor in the deal falling through last summer, but Chelsea are now confident of making a move for Hulk, with Mourinho ready to put in a £35 million ($54 million) offer, with the blessing of owner Roman Abramovich, according to the Daily Mirror.
Hulk has not had the best of times in Russia, with Zenit St. Petersburg also reportedly ready to cut their losses and let go of one of their highest earners.
Chelsea are in the market for a striker, with their No.1 target Falcao choosing to sign for Monaco, ironically primarily due to third-party ownership issues as well.
Edinson Cavani has been heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge, but Manchester City are thought to be the frontrunners for the Napoli forward's signature.
Fernando Torres' future under Mourinho is still up in the air, while Demba Ba has not exactly convinced he can carry the mantle on his own.
Romelu Lukaku is again expected to be moved out on loan, with the Belgian international desperate for consistent first-team action ahead of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
Hulk is a versatile forward, capable of playing across the forward line, and with Chelsea also set to seal the signing of Andre Schurrle, it does look like Mourinho will have plenty of versatile attacking options at his disposal.
Schurrle spoke to Mourinho after playing under the Chelsea manager during the testimonial of former Blues midfielder Michael Ballack.
Mourinho managed a World XI side, which also included Schurrle among former and current Chelsea players Didier Drogba, Ricardo Carvalho, Andriy Shevchenko, Michael Essien and Florent Malouda.
"Yes, we talked together," the German international said. "He is also my coach today (Wednesday), in this farewell match of Michael Ballack.
"Let's wait, let's see what happens."
Chelsea are expected to complete a £20 million move with Schurrle already reportedly agreeing on a five-year contract.
