Chelsea are reported to be preparing a second bid for Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney.
The Blues' first offer, which was believed to be in the region of £30m, was rejected by the Red Devils in July.
However, Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has not given up hope of signing the England international, who is reported to be close to handing in a fresh transfer request at Old Trafford.
According to the Daily Mail, Mourinho will "imminently" offer United £40m for Rooney and then promise the player that he will be made the first-choice forward at Stamford Bridge.
Rooney has fallen down the striking pecking order at Old Trafford behind Robin van Persie, who featured in every single Premier League game for United last season, scoring 26 goals in the process.
Rooney scored 12 goals in 27 Premier League appearances last term, while Chelsea's top scorer, Frank Lampard, found the net 15 times in 29 top-flight outings.
Robert Summerscales
