Blues fail in Anelka bid

Bolton reject offer from Chelsea

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 7th January 2008

Nicolas Anelka2

Anelka: Bid rejected

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Bolton have rejected a bid from Chelsea for striker Nicolas Anelka.

The Frenchman has enjoyed a good season with Bolton but his future has been the subject of speculation for some time.

Bolton are struggling in the bottom half of the Premier League table and Anelka admitted last week he would be interested in a move to Stamford Bridge.

A number of other top clubs, including Manchester United, had been linked with January moves for Anelka, but Chelsea have now made the first approach.

The Blues will be without Didier Drogba for the next month as he takes part in the African Cup of Nations for Ivory Coast.

The likes of Claudio Pizarro and Andrei Shevchenko have been inconsistent and Avram Grant has set his sights on Anelka to provide the firepower in Drogba's absence.

"We can confirm we have made an official offer for the transfer of Nicolas Anelka, which is being discussed with Bolton Wanderers," read a statement on Chelsea's official website.

But Bolton have turned down Chelsea's first offer as they remain determined to keep hold of the former Arsenal forward.

Chelsea may now decide to come back with an increased offer as they attempt to secure his services during the transfer window.

It is understood that their opening bid was in the region of £12million.