Zenit forward Hulk has told Chelsea he could finally join them in the summer after growing disillusioned with life in Russia.
Hulk moved to St Petersburg in September for a fee of £40million after Chelsea had twice failed with bids to land the hitman, but the Brazilian could end up at Stamford Bridge after all.
According to reports in Russia, the 26-year-old has become frustrated with Zenit manager Luciano Spalletti and has requested a transfer at the end of the season.
Hulk is dodging questions about his desire to leave – but told reporters this week that he is specifically interested in the Premier League.
‘My future? I love the Premier League,’ said Hulk.
‘The Premier League is a great competition with great clubs. If I have time, I watch the matches on television.’
Chelsea are the only club known to hold a serious interest in Hulk, and as they mull over a big-money striker purchase in the summer the comments come at an interesting time.
Radamel Falcao and Wilfried Bony are both also among the Blues’ top targets, but a deal for either is thought to be a way off.
Hulk is expected to cost upwards of £45million.