Despite the transfer window being closed, there is always transfer gossip doing the rounds in the papers and we’ll keep you up-to-date with the latest news during the coming months. Today, Chelsea will face competition from Zenit St Petersburg for Marouane Fellaini.

Russian giants Zenit St Petersburg have confirmed their interest in Chelsea target Marouane Fellaini, according to the Metro.

Fellaini has become one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe after an impressive start to the season with Everton, which has seen him score eight goals in 13 games so far including key goals against Arsenal and Manchester City.

His form has alerted the likes of Chelsea, with the European champions believed to be lining-up a bid in excess of £20m this January.

However, the Blues will face stiff competition for Fellaini from big-spending Zenit after the Russians confirmed they are monitoring the 25-year-old ahead of the opening of the transfer window next month.

‘The management team expect to strengthen the midfield during the winter transfer window,’ ‘The signings will be players of very high quality. For example, the Belgium international Marouane Fellaini is on the list – he has proved himself in his games for Everton.’ A spokesperson for Zenit is quoted as saying by the Metro.

While the Belgian international has insisted he’s happy at Goodison Park he has made no effort to hide his desire to play in the Champions League and for a club fighting for trophies each year, so it’s going to be tough for Everton to hang on to him for much longer.

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Chelsea, despite their recent woes, would certainly be able to offer Fellaini the chance to showcase his talents at a higher level, and owner Roman Abramovich is ready to open the cheque book once again to ensure his team remain competitive during the second half of the season with Fellaini high on his wish-list.

Woudl Chelsea fans like to see Fellaini at Stamford Bridge. Get involved in the comments section.