Chelsea Transfer News: Latest Miralem Pjanic and John Obi Mikel Rumours

Chelsea have been handed a blow in their pursuit of Roma star Miralem Pjanic with the news that Bayern Munich are preparing to match his €40 million release clause, per Fichajes (h/t Alex Harris of the Daily Star).

Incoming Chelsea boss Antonio Conte had reportedly offered a three-year contract to the Bosnian playmaker at the beginning of April, per TuttoMercatoWeb. However, their ambition to sign the Roma midfielder has now been rocked following the interest from the Bundesliga heavyweights.

Pjanic has enjoyed a productive year in the Italian capital, featuring in 39 matches in all competitions for the Giallorossi and scoring 11 goals, per WhoScored.com. His complete contributions in the UEFA Champions League have also been impressive, and he has gained a notoriety for set-piece goals.

Gifted with a creative mind and quick feet to match, the inventive midfielder plays sharp, incisive passes and dominates the central positions with his high-tempo running, composure on the ball and possession play.

The 26-year-old has netted six free-kicks this season, five of which have been netted in domestic competition, per WhoScored.

Here's a collection of his best strikes:

According to Harris, Pjanic is high on Italy manager Conte's wish list ahead of his arrival but now faces competition from the Bavarians for his signature. Roma, meanwhile, are eager to keep their central midfielder, whose contract at the Stadio Olimpico expires in 2018.

Fichajes reported that the Germans—who will be led by Carlo Ancelotti next term—are prepared to match his €40 million buyout clause.

Chelsea will be desperate to add quality to their ranks in the upcoming offseason following a dismal Premier League title defence. Jose Mourinho, sacked in December, was replaced by Guus Hiddink, and the experienced Dutch coach has returned some balance and consistency to the west Londoners' performances.

Elsewhere, John Obi Mikel has turned down a big-money move to Turkey to remain at Stamford Bridge, per Mike McGrath of the Sun.

Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images

The 29-year-old Nigerian reportedly rejected a proposed £110,000-per-week offer from Turkish duo Fenerbahce and Galatasaray and is now eager to extend his 10-year stay with the English club.

According to McGrath, the bumper offers were sent through in January, but Mikel—who has regained his place in the team under Hiddink—had no intention of leaving the club.

The towering defensive midfielder has made 246 league appearances for Chelsea since joining the club in 2006 and has won a haul of major trophies, including two Premier League titles, four FA Cups and the 2011-12 Champions League. He has one year remaining on his current contract.