Duff is unlikely to rush into a decision Duff's career statistics Chelsea sign Johnson

Damien Duff is set for talks with Chelsea on Thursday after Blackburn agreed to sell the Republic of Ireland winger for �17m.

Blackburn had turned down three previous bids for the 24-year-old from the Stamford Bridge club.

But the latest offer triggered a clause in the player's contract which allows him to talk to another club.

Chelsea confirmed on Wednesday that they had completed the �6.9m purchase of Geremi from Real Madrid.

And with a �7m offer waiting to be delivered for Southampton's Wayne Bridge, the Blues' spending spree is set to continue.

Duff was pulled out of Blackburn's trip for the pre-season tour to America after travelling to Manchester Airport to fly out with the squad.

He may not, however, rush into a move to Chelsea, who have been taken over by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich.

BBC Sport understands Duff would need major persuasion to leave the north and move to Stamford Bridge, with Manchester United still interested.

And he could even put off a move to Chelsea, with Sir Alex Ferguson remaining a long-term admirer of the Republic of Ireland winger and waiting in the wings.

It raises the prospect of Duff staying at Blackburn despite Chelsea agreeing a deal.

Who else have Chelsea been linked with?

United boss Ferguson would like to take Duff to Old Trafford, but would have preferred to make his move in 12 months and at a cheaper price.

Liverpool were only put off signing Duff because of the massive price tag, and boss Gerard Houllier is still a fan of the Irishman.

HAVE YOUR SAY I would think Duff would have priority over Veron , so why would we give Man Utd the ammunition to steal any possible deal from us? Chris Saberi Join the 606 debate

But Chelsea's intervention has raised the stakes as they steal a march on their rivals in the transfer chase for Duff.

United are about to spend �24m on Brazil pair Ronaldinho and Kleberson, reducing the chances of an Old Trafford move.

But if Ferguson rakes in �14m from Chelsea for Juan Sebastian Veron, that could still spark a late twist in the Duff transfer saga.

Chelsea keep Bridge in sights

Duff agreed the escape clause when he signed a new four-year deal at Blackburn in summer 2002.

Blackburn chief executive John Williams admitted: "There's a massive financial up side to selling him which can never be underestimated in the post-Jack Walker era.

"But our football instinct currently prevails and we don't want him to go.

"We know Chelsea can entice Damien with the lure of Champions League football but we want him to stay here and try and achieve that with us."