Chelsea chase Jeremy Toulalan

Chelsea are preparing a summer transfer swoop for Lyon midfielder Jeremy Toulalan. With Claude Makelele expected to quit at the end of next season, Chelsea boss Avram Grant and chief scout Frank Arnesen have already decided on the eventual replacement.

Raymond Domenech has previously stated that he believes Toulalan could be the long-term successor to Claude Makelele as the anchorman in the French international side's midfield.

Toulalan has been in inspired form for Lyon in Ligue 1 this year, earning rave reviews from several in France. Toulalan took on the role of holding midfielder after Diarra left Lyon to join Real Madrid, and has excelled in the role.

Lyon chairman Jean-Michel Aulas has warned clubs off of Jeremy Toulalan, but the financial clout of Chelsea could prize the midfielder away from the club.

The 24 year old could be allowed to leave Lyon for a fee believed to be around £9 million.