The club had previously named the Brazilian as their prime summer target following the earlier signings of Jose Bosingwa and Deco.

A statement on the Blues' website, www.chelseafc.com, read: "Further to media reports, Chelsea Football Club can confirm we have made an offer to Real Madrid today for the transfer of Robinho."

The 24-year-old, who joined Real Madrid from Santos in 2005, has 50 caps for Brazil and Chelsea's offer is believed to be around £20million.