Chelsea were also interested in signing Franck Ribery, admitted new Blues manager Carlo Ancelotti.

But the Italian also thinks Ribery will be staying at Bayern this season.

Chelsea have already bought in Ross Turnbull, Daniel Sturridge and Yuri Zhirkov to Stamford Bridge.

And Ancelotti has confirmed he remains in the market for additions and has outlined his plans to bring in a creative player.

Ribery has been strongly linked with a move away from Bayern, with Real Madrid considered the favourites to land his signature.

Bayern, though, have remained adamant that Ribery is not for sale, and Ancelotti seems to have accepted he may be forced to look elsewhere for reinforcements.

"Chelsea are a strong team, a physical team doing very well," said the Italian, who was unveiled to the media on Monday.

"They can be improved with some creative players. We are looking for these creative players.

"Ribery is, for sure, a great, great player. But Ribery, I think, he will stay in Bayern Munich.

"Madrid can buy Ribery, I know. Not only Ribery, but (Liverpool midfielder) Alonso as well. I know how many players Madrid can buy."