Abramovich to Open Cheque Book

Daniel Sturridge: Could be gone in the summerRoman Abramovich is set to open up his cheque book yet again this summer, and has had his scouts preparing huge dossiers on a host of players, ready for the new manager to run wild with.

Nobody is too sure who that man will be, but with the riches available, they will be like a kid in a candy shop.

Although the Russian billionaire wants some say and input on incomings and outgoings, he is sure to let the new man have the final say, and with rumours of a host of stars leaving Stamford Bridge this summer, no-one is quite sure how Chelsea will approach next season, especially as Champions League football is a long way from being secured, which could hamper any possible incomings.

Most of the change is likely to be at the front, with Didier Drogba, Florent Malouda, and Salomon Kalou all out of contract, they are all set to leave, although Kalou may be tempted to give London another season, especially if Roberto Di Matteo gets the role full-time.

Daniel Sturridge is also said to be increasingly unhappy with his lack of action, with Arsenal and former club Manchester City supposedly on alert.

Barcelona are apparently extremely keen on David Luiz, as Carlos Puyol is nearing the end of his prestigious career. Former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is also keeping tabs on Branislav Ivanovic, as Real Madrid look to address their right-back issue for next year.

This all depends on who takes the reigns at Chelsea for next season, and who he decides is vital to Chelseas plans. Abramovich is rumoured to have singled out the need for two defenders, a striker, and a midfielder, possibly more should they sell some of talent they currently have.

Over the next couple of weeks, I will look at some of the players that Chelsea have been linked with, and who could well be lining up in the Chelsea blue for the 2012/2013 season.

By Brad Smith

Follow @BrummieBrad