Abramovich to take matters into his own hands to sign Neymar

Roman Abramovich is so interested in bringing Brazilian sensation Neymar to Chelsea that he is willing to personally speak to the 19-year-old in order to push through a deal.

Chelsea have been long-term admirers of the young striker and have already had a £19m offer turned down last summer by current club Santos.

Neymar and fellow prospect Paulo Henrique Ganso have been the subject of substantial interest to date, with a number of top European clubs stating their interest in the duo.

Santos may have repelled such interest so far, but given their own poor start to the current Brazilian league season and the fact that the two youngsters have gained further first-team experience, the time may have come for the pair to move on.

Neymar is perhaps the most sought-after prospect in world football and this could be the reason for Chelsea owner Abramovich taking matters into his own hands to boost the club’s chances of securing his signature.

A Chelsea source told the Sun: “Roman is ready to get personally involved to clinch the signing of Neymar. He’s aiming to talk with him next month to prove how much he is wanted.”

The capture of Neymar could be just the coup Chelsea need next season and they are currently 2/1 in the Premier League odds to win the title in 2012.

However, Neymar will not be a replacement for Didier Drogba as the Ivory Coast striker is set to be offered a new contract at Stamford Bridge.

The new deal would keep the 33-year-old at Chelsea until 2013, which would mean that Nicolas Anelka may be the man to move in order to make room for Neymar.

Drogba, Neymar and Fernando Torres would certainly give Chelsea enough firepower in their ranks to win the Premier League, while some further spending is expected in the summer to add some greater creativity to their midfield.