Chelsea are ready to up their bid for Germany international Andre Schurrle, according to The Telegraph.

The Stamford Bridge outfit are in the market for a new forward after seeing Didier Drogba leave the club on a free transfer this summer, with a raft of different marksmen being linked with a move to west London.

However, Roberto Di Matteo's men are keen on Bayer Leverkusen's Schurrle, and have already had an offer in the region of £17 million turned down by the Bundesliga club.

The BayArena outfit have stated that they will not sell their skilful forward, however it is believed that negotiations between the clubs are ongoing.

The Blues are readying a new bid, thought to be in excess of £20 million, which will test the German team's resolve, and could well see Schurrle as the latest new face at the Champions League-winning side.

Meanwhile, should a deal for Schurrle be completed, it is expected that Daniel Sturridge will be deemed as surplus to requirements at Chelsea, and will be allowed to leave the club.

The sprightly striker, who has been selected in the Team GB squad for the Olympics, has seen opportunities dwindle since Di Matteo took over from Andres Villas Boas, and could well be looking for a new team.

By Gareth McKnight

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