Chelsea rival Man U for Owen

Chelsea will rival Manchester United for Real Madrid striker Michael Owen.

The Blues are stepping up their bid to sign Owen after failing with a £30million move for Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta flew to Cameroon to resolve a contract dispute with the player and ensure he does not quit.

Eto'o, 24, said: "I'll be signing an extension on my contract when I return from holiday. I was honoured by the club president's visit."

Anyone else get the feeling that Chelsea just dont want Man U to have him?

I still think if he comes back he will go to Liverpool!

Chelsea would ruin Owen. The style of football they play, and the formation they use, they need a big strong centre forward who can score goals. Owen just wouldnt fit in that team I dont think. It would give them more options though, which maybe they lack.

I feel they are doing this, to either push up the value that Man U would have to pay, or to just block the move to United. Chelsea know United only have a limited funds, and they will want them to spend as much money on one player as possible. They wouldnt want United to pick up any bargains.

I can see Owen going to United as long as the price is right.

I think he would definitely have to see Stevie Gerrard sign a new contract before he went back to Liverpool, without that happening i dont see the move being made.

Until that happens (if it does) if hes coming back to England i tihnk Man U are definitely favourites for his signature, i think O Dogg is right and Chelsea are just plaing games.