European champions Chelsea have moved a step ahead of Premier League rivals and champions Manchester City. Backed by billionaire owner Roman Abramovich, the Blues have already splashed £64 million in order to challenge City for the Premier League title.

Manager Roberto Di Matteo has been given the go ahead to take Chelsea's spending spree upto £100 million. After being criticised for their 'negative' football style, the Blues are keen to transform into a global superpower.

The departure of striker Didier Drogba, 34, triggered Chelsea to spend millions in the summer transfer market. However, the Blues are still in the hunt to replace their legendary forward even though £50 million striker Fernando Torres is showing signs of form after a successful campaign with Spain at the Euro 2012.

In came Eden Hazard, the Belgium forward from Lille cost Chelsea £32 million while the 21-year-old will reportedly receive a weekly wage of around £170,000.

Germany winger Marko Marin made his move from Werder Bremen to London in a deal worth £7 million. Nicknamed 'German Messi', the 23-year-old can work his magic on either flanks.

After weeks of speculations, Chelsea finally announced the signing of Brazil playmaker Oscar Dos Santos. Commonly known as Oscar, 20, impressed during the second season with former club Internacional. The young midfielder also helped Brazil win silver at London Olympics.

The Blues are now planning to bring £20m-rated Germany striker Andre Schurrle as a possible replacement for Drogba while they are also eyeing right back Cesar Azpilicueta from Marseille.

In 2011, Chelsea spent £46 million on four players, Romelu Lukaku (£18m), Romeu (£5m), Juan Mata (£24m) and Raul Meireles (free) while Ramires was signed in 2010 for £20m.

Meanwhile, Roberto Mancini remains frustrated due to lack of funds for potential signings. The Italian also said the Citizens need three or four players to improve the squad and challenge for the UEFA Champions League after an early exit last season.

However, Everton's Jack Rodwell signed for City in a deal reportedly worth £15-20m but City were heavily linked with a move for Arsenal striker Robin van Persie who is now being desperately chased by rivals Manchester United.

City, owned by Abu Dhabi's oil tycoon, took the transfer window by storm after spending £75m in 2011 and a mammoth £106m last season which helped the Blues of Manchester win the title after 44 years.

With the new season comes new challenges and Chelsea are on course to showcase their talent and battle with their rivals for the ultimate trophy.

OneIndia News