Rumour: Chelsea to make shock move for Bayern Munich striker Mario Mandzukic

Mario Mandzukic of Bayern Muenchen celebrates his first goal during the Bundesliga match between Bayern Muenchen and Bayer Leverkusen at Allianz Arena

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has earmarked Bayern Munich striker Mario Mandzukic as a potential summer transfer target as he looks to bolster the west Londoners’ faltering front line, report Daily Star.

The Croatian international has performed admirably for the Bavarians throughout the season and remains Pep Guardiola’s first choice striker.

However, his position in the side is under serious threat as the Bundesliga outfit have agreed a deal to sign Polish forward Robert Lewandowski at the end of the season.

Mandzukic is believed to be frustrated that the club have sought to replace him despite an excellent goal return during the current campaign. The 27-year-old is likely to be dropped to the bench in favour of new arrival Lewandowski and is expected to seek an exit from the Allianz Arena as a result.

Meanwhile, Mourinho has made no secret of his desire to make a marquee signing in the summer, with a lack of goals from Chelsea’s current crop of strikers widely believed to be the glaring weakness in their squad.

Atletico Madrid forward Diego Costa has been strongly linked with the Blues and remains a top target, but the Portuguese boss may need to sign a number of attackers in the close season.

Demba Ba and Samuel Eto’o are likely to be moved on while Fernando Torres’ future is far from certain, so at least two new recruits are expected if Chelsea are to challenge for silverware next season.