Chelsea have been linked with various players this summer, but Napoli striker Edinson Cavani, who has been one of the biggest and most expensive targets for Jose Mourinho, could be on his way to Real Madrid, according to the player’s father.

The Blues have been undergoing talks with Napoli chiefs as revealed by the club chairman Aurelio De Laurentiis, who also suggested that there was concrete talks which could lead to a deal. However, media sources heavily pointed to a two horse race between Madrid and Chelsea. It seems the glitz, glamor and the history associated with Madrid has won the deal for club president Florentino Perez, who is still searching for a manager for next season. The transfer fee in question is in excess of £50 million, a price tag only attainable by the two clubs in question.

However, it appeared earlier as if Mourinho’s popular man-management skills and the ambition showed by owner Roman Abramovich convinced Cavani of a move to Stamford Bridge, but for the revelation made by the striker’s father recently.

According to SkySports, his father, Luis Cavani said, “Cavani’s intention is to play for Madrid. He is excited about it and is very willing to see it through.

“He has told the family in private that he wants to join Real Madrid but if he declares it publicly it will annoy Napoli.”

The news will come as a disappointment to Mourinho and Abramovich, who had set their mind for Cavani to lead the attack next season. It will be interesting to see who the Blues turn their attention to, as there is plenty of time for the club to begin talks for a new target.

Negotiations for big multi-million pound signings usually begin before the end of the season, and take up to a couple of months to execute. This means Mourinho will have to quickly decide on a change of target.

Stevan Jovetic appears to be in negotiations with Arsenal over a move, but Chelsea, with their money power could still hijack the deal, if the Montenegro international is a player Mourinho believes in.

Also, signing Wayne Rooney could now be a priority for Abramovich, as the England international is a proven Premier League star, and could be the impetus needed in the squad to winning trophies.