La Liga side Real Betis are hoping to persuade Peruvian striker Claudio Pizarro to join them from Chelsea this summer.Incoming Verdiblanco chief Luis Castel wants to begin his reign by bringing in a player that will excite the fans, and has made the Peru international his top target.

Marca believe talks have already begun regarding a potential transfer, and Castel confirmed the club are negotiating with a player, but refused to confirm or deny if it was Pizarro.

"We are talking with a great player, a striker that (coach Paco) Chaparro and all the fans will really enjoy having in the squad," he stated.

The 29-year-old striker is aware that the Blues are prepared to let him leave just a year after signing him from Bayern Munich as he is not expected to feature in Luiz Felipe Scolari's plans.

Along with not wanting to keep a player in his squad that could become unhappy, Scolari will also have been advised by the club that his 4million euros-per-season wages are a considerable burden they could do without.

Chaparro has called for Betis to strengthen if they want to avoid a campaign struggling against the drop, and has stated a new striker is vital to their cause.

Pizarro may not have been a hit in west London, but his stock remains high on the continent and the Andalucian outfit will not be alone in their pursuit of the forward if their enquiries are met with a positive response.

According to reports, Paris Saint-Germain and Werder Bremen are also monitoring the situation and could be prepared to enter the race for Pizarro's signature.

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