Grant hopes to sign Anelka
2008-01-09 10:18
London - Chelsea manager Avram Grant hopes to sign Bolton striker Nicolas Anelka in time for Saturday's match against Tottenham.
The Blues had a 10 million pounds bid for the France international turned down last week, but Grant hinted they are set to go back with an improved offer.
Bolton are likely to accept around 15 million pounds as Anelka has made it clear he wants to leave the Reebok Stadium.
Grant, whose side beat Everton 2-1 in the League Cup semi-final first leg on Tuesday, needs at least one striker because Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou are at the Africa Nations Cup for a month and Andriy Shevchenko is injured.
"We have confirmed we have an interest in Anelka. We made a bid two days ago because we wanted him for the Everton match but I hope it will be for Saturday," Grant said. "If not we will carry on with the players we have.
"We do not plan to stay with one striker. It is important to do it quickly but this is not my area. I am not negotiating with Bolton."