Chelsea are preparing a big-money bid for Valencia striker David Villa. Manchester City have been heavily linked with the 27-year-old Spain star, although Villa last night claimed he intended to see out the remainder of his contract at the Mestalla, which does not expire until 2014.

However, it is understood Chelsea are preparing to test Valencia’s financial position my making a huge offer for Villa, who scored in Spain’s friendly win over England in Seville in February.

After a couple of relatively austere summers, it is thought Blues owner Roman Abramovich wants to make a signature signing, to re-emphasise his commitment to the Stamford Bridge cause.

And with the futures of Didier Drogba — a goalscorer in last night’s stunning Champions League win over Liverpool at Anfield — and Nicolas Anelka still open to doubt, Abramovich feels Villa would be the perfect addition to the Chelsea squad.

Valencia are known to have been in dire financial difficulties, at one stage struggling to pay their players, although in his statement last night, Villa suggested those troubles were easing.

However, Chelsea will be eager to discover if a deal can be done, believing their status as a Champions League regular, who harbour genuine hopes of lifting the European Cup for the first time in Rome next month, can see off interest from Manchester City, who will at best only be able to offer Europa League action next term.