Report: Chelsea already opt against permanent Radamel Falcao deal

Chelsea have reportedly already decided that they will not sign misfiring striker Radamel Falcao on a permanent basis next summer.

The Colombian, 29, drew another blank in Saturday's 3-1 defeat by Southampton at Stamford Bridge to ensure that his barren spell goes on, having joined on loan from AS Monaco.

As part of his loan agreement, the Premier League champions have the option to sign him outright at the end of the season but, according to The Mirror, a permanent move is unlikely.

Falcao has netted once in nine outings in all competitions so far, with his only strike coming in the 2-1 league defeat by Crystal Palace in August.

The former Atletico Madrid and Porto hitman scored four times during a largely disappointing loan spell at Manchester United last season.