Chelsea look set to go up against another English Premiership side as they step up their bid to sign Brazilian midfielder Emerson from Serie A leaders Roma.

The Stamford Bridge millionaires targeted Emerson in the summer and it is believed that the Italian giants turned down a bid worth £27.6m, forcing the Blues to turn to Frenchman Claude Makelele.

However Emerson’s current contract with Roma expires in 2005 prompting further transfer speculation with Inter Milan also said to be the hunt for the South American.

Gilmar Veloz, the player’s agent, revealed the interest of a second Premiership outfit. “There is a different English club interested in my client,” said Veloz.

“Chelsea? They are not the only ones. But I will speak directly to Roma about these things.”