Chelsea are considering Liverpool's John Arne Riise as an alternative if Arsenal reject their £20million bid for Ashley Cole.
Rumours are surfacing in London that Jose Mourinho has placed the Norwegian next on his list of left-sided defensive targets as the capital's big two wrangle over the price-tag for the England star.
Riise was impressive in last season's Champions' League clashes against the Stamford Bridge club and can provide an attacking threat down the flank - something the Blues coach identified in Cole.
Liverpool would be unwilling to sell unless Rafael Benitez can snap up a quick replacement from his Spanish contacts - but Riise's attacking instincts have left the Anfield back four, Sami Hyypia in particular, exposed during the pre-season.
Benitez could be tempted to part with the Norwegian, a firm favourite with the fans and previous management team, but not indispensable to the current coach - if the price is right and Chelsea can certainly afford his personal demands.
Rumours are surfacing in London that Jose Mourinho has placed the Norwegian next on his list of left-sided defensive targets as the capital's big two wrangle over the price-tag for the England star.
Riise was impressive in last season's Champions' League clashes against the Stamford Bridge club and can provide an attacking threat down the flank - something the Blues coach identified in Cole.
Liverpool would be unwilling to sell unless Rafael Benitez can snap up a quick replacement from his Spanish contacts - but Riise's attacking instincts have left the Anfield back four, Sami Hyypia in particular, exposed during the pre-season.
Benitez could be tempted to part with the Norwegian, a firm favourite with the fans and previous management team, but not indispensable to the current coach - if the price is right and Chelsea can certainly afford his personal demands.



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