Chelsea in hunt for Fernando Llorente

Chelsea have entered the hunt for Athletic Bilbao striker Fernando Llorente.

It is believed that Blues owner Roman Abramovich has given club officials the go-ahead to step up their pursuit of the 26-year-old, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.

The Stamford Bridge side regard the Spain international as a possible replacement for Nicolas Anelka.

However, they may have to battle it out with Real Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur for his signature.