Man Utd to offer Saha for Essien

Manchester United striker Louis Saha has been linked with a return to France. United boss Sir Alex Ferguson remains keen on Lyon midfielder Mickael Essien and is considering using Saha as a makeweight in a deal worth ?21 million. Lyon president Jean Michel Aulas has declared they're chasing a top class striker after being turned down by Liverpool's Milan Baros last week.

Saha has also been linked with Newcastle and former club Fulham as his future at United appears in serious doubt.

Chelsea focus on Lyon star Essien

Chelsea are preparing a major assault for Lyon midfield ace Michael Essien. The Evening Standard says Chelsea will turn their attention to signing Essien after completing the ?8m transfer of Asier Del Horno.

The Blues have had a ?14m bid for the Ghanaian international turned down by Lyon but are confident of securing his signature despite the French champions' ?21m price tag.

Lyon president: Essien bid wasn't from Chelsea

Chelsea face competition for Lyon midfielder Michael Essien. Lyon president Jean Michel Aulas has revealed a bid last week of ?17 million was not from the London giants.

"Until today, I have received no offer from Chelsea," he told L'Equipe. "The ?17 million offer I got last Friday came from another club."