Chelsea move in for Saha

Chelsea have attempted to steal Fulham striker Louis Saha from under the noses of Manchester United.

Reports that the Frenchman was on the brink of a near-£10m (€14m) move to the Premiership champions were denied by United and Fulham.

Fulham, according to club sources, would be looking for around £18m (€26m) before considering letting their star asset go.

Alex Ferguson is understood to be interested in bringing the striker to Old Trafford, but no deal is imminent, even though Saha was quoted this morning as saying he is "very happy" that the transfer has gone through.

Fulham officials say the last bid received from Old Trafford was for £8m (€11.5m) 10 days ago - and no fresh offer has been received.

Fulham spokesman Chester Stern told the Press Association: "There has been no fresh bid from Manchester United. There is no truth in the story at all."

United insiders believe Fulham are trying to establish Saha's market value, even though Chris Coleman does not want to lose the player.