Real Madrid step up chase for Essien

Real Madrid have stepped up their interest in Ghana's Michael Essien and may offer Robinho and Roysten Drenthe in a bid to seal the deal.

English side Chelsea are reluctant to release the midfielder who is the backbone of their recent successes.

Stamford Brigde were reported to have declined a lucrative offer from the Spanish giants over Essien last month.

But Real Madrid have now improved the offer with a a swap deal that will also include cash.

The Mail on Sunday says Real Madrid's sporting director Predrag Mijatovic attended Chelsea's Champions League win over Fenerbahce earlier this month to monitor Essien.

The visit is believed to have included a meeting with Stamford Bridge chief executive Peter Kenyon and talks with Essien's agent.

Real may offer Brazil star Robinho and Dutch winger Royston Drenthe to reduce the $30million it would cost to secure Essien.