Chelsea are poised to bring Real Madrid midfielder Geremi back to the Premiership. The two clubs have been in discussions over the transfer of the 24-year-old Cameroon international, who spent last season on loan in England with Middlesbrough.
Chelsea’s new billionaire owner Roman Abramovich is ready to provide manager Claudio Ranieri with the money to strengthen his squad.
But the Blues want Real Madrid to lower their $15m (£10m) asking price, according to Geremi’s agent.
« Chelsea are waiting for Real Madrid to get back to them with a more reasonable price, » Barry Silkman told this website.
« It’s got to be a sensible price. Just because Chelsea have more money available to them doesn’t mean that they are going to pay more for players.
« We’re hoping that Real Madrid realise this and drop the price.
« One way or the other the matter will be resolved by next Wednesday.
« Geremi loved the Premiership last season and he would love to play in England again.
« If the price is right the deal will go ahead. If not, then there will be no move. »
Ranieri wanted to sign Geremi last summer but did not have sufficient funds to finance the deal.
But Chelsea are in a much stronger position to compete with Europe’s elite clubs following Abramovich’s £140m takeover of Stamford Bridge.
By Nada Grkinic
