Roman Abramovich is reportedly considering a move for former Barcelona director Ramon Planes as he looks to shake-up the hierarchy currently operating at Chelsea.
Marina Granovskaia is currently the Blues' chief director of football, tasked with completing transfer deals and contract negotiations, but Abramovich does not want to stand still.
According to a report from Spanish outlet Sport, via SportWitness, the Russian sees Planes as someone who can improve Chelsea after he left his Camp Nou role in 2021.
The 54-year-old has a number of offers on the table and rival clubs have not yet been revealed as Chelsea look to win the race.
Back in November, Barcelona released a statement confirming his departure, writing: "FC Barcelona and Ramon Planes have reached an agreement to terminate the contract that bound both parties until 30 June 2022, at the request of the man who had until now been the club's technical secretary.
"The club wishes to publicly express its gratitude to Ramon Planes for his commitment, professionalism and contributions throughout this last two years, and wishes him the best of luck and every success in the future."
Prior to his departure, Marca, via AS in November, reported that Newcastle United had also been in contact with Planes over a role at St. James's Park as the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund look to lay the foundations for success.
With the Magpies setting their long-term sights on challenging Chelsea in the top four, Abramovich perhaps has an added incentive to win the race for Planes.
The report from Sport has credited the former Barca man with having 'discovered' current exciting stars such as Gavi, Ronald Araújo, Abde Ezzalzouli and Golden Boy winner Pedri.
Abramovich finally secured the final trophy of his reign at Stamford Bridge when Chelsea beat Palmeiras on Saturday to clinch the FIFA Club World Cup.
But there is work to be done in the summer if they are to close the gap on Manchester City in the Premier League and it appears Planes may be part of their plans.
