Chelsea will rival Man Utd for Real Madrid striker 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."