Chelsea appear to be a step closer to signing Columbian goal-machine Radamel Falcao following comments made by the Atletico Madrid striker praising the European champions, according to the Daily Mail.
Falcao’s reputation has vastly grown since arriving in Europe from River Plate in 2009. FC Porto bought the forward for a miniscule fee compared to the £35million Atletico Madrid paid for him just two seasons later.
The Columbian international netted 72 times in 87 games during his time in Portugal and has continued his goal-scoring prowess with his current club, for whom he has recorded 49 goals in 60 appearances, scoring 13 times in 10 matches this season.
Manchester City and Real Madrid have also been on the trail of the 26-year-old, with rumours that Roberto Mancini has met with the player’s agent several times in Madrid doing the rounds. However, recent comments from Falcao suggest he is most interested in a move to Stamford Bridge.
“Chelsea are champions of Europe and there is not much more to say than that,” the Atletico forward told the Daily Mail.
“Even after winning the Champions League they still go and sign players of the highest quality. Their ambition is clear.
“I was also a big fan of [former Chelsea forward] Gianfranco Zola when I was growing up.”
When quizzed on whether he would be able to adapt to the strength and pace of the Premier League, Falcao replied: "I would not be worried about the physical aspect of the Premier League. I have scored goals in Argentina, Portugal and now Spain.
“I am confident I can adapt my game to any league. I would welcome the challenge of the Premier League.
“I have watched the Premier League for a long time. There is so much quality and it is such an exciting league. Of course it is nice to think I might play in it,” he added.
Falcao comes with a huge price-tag, but it has been suggested that Roman Abramovich, who is a big fan of the Columbian, is willing to pay the player's £48million minimum release clause.
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