Chelsea’s hopes of capturing CSKA Moscow striker Seydou Doumbia in January have been dented after it was revealed that the striker has opened talks with the Russian side over a new contract, as reported by the Daily Star.
This will come as a serious blow, with the club having recently found out that he is available for £15 million as a result of his contract situation.
Doumbia has scored nine goals in 14 games for the eastern European giants.
The 26 year old’s current contract expires in 2016, which meant that the Russian side were increasingly worried about losing him on a free.
They have also been hit by a series of injury problems suffered by the striker.
Chelsea almost signed him in the summer but they were unable to agree a fee over his transfer.
Recent form has proven his value, however, and they now refuse to sell him for less than £25 million.
“There is plenty of interest in Seydou from England plus clubs in Spain, Germany and Italy.
“He is a goalscorer and there aren’t many of them around.
“However, he is contracted to CSKA and clubs will have to pay their fee.”
