Roman Abramovich has reassured Chelsea's senior players that he intends to revitalise an aging squad in the summer, and is ready to sanction a move for the much-coveted Valencia striker David Villa.

If accomplished, the move would constitute a record British transfer fee.

Valencia are seeking some 45 million pounds for Villa, a figure that may prove beyond the two Spanish clubs, Real Madrid and Barcelona, who are currently courting him.

The fee would rival the 32.5 million pounds paid by Manchester City for Robinho in September.

There’s no surprise in Chelsea's interest – Villa has scored a superb 80 goals in his four years at the Mestalla and won the golden boot with Spain at Euro 2008.