Chelsea considering shock swoop for Man Utd’s former £24m star striker

Chelsea could reportedly launch a shock January swoop for former Manchester United striker Robin van Persie, according to the Express.

The defending Premier League champions, who defeated Arsenal 1-0 at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, could turn to the Fenerbahce forward before the close of the transfer window if their pursuit of Brazil international Alexandre Pato falls through.

The 32-year-old, who has 101 international caps for the Netherlands, has scored 12 goals in 28 appearances in all competitions for the Turkish giants this season.

Van Persie, who cost United a reported £24m from Arsenal back in August 2012, netted an impressive 58 goals in 105 games for the Red Devils before leaving Old Trafford last summer.

However the report suggests the Blues will only make a move for the Dutchamn should a loan move for Corinthians striker Pato fail to materialise before Monday’s deadline (23:00 GMT).