Money no object for Big Phil

Luiz Felipe Scolari will be handed a massive transfer budget to transform Chelsea into the world's greatest football team.

The Brazilian, who starts his £6million-a-year job at Stamford Bridge on 1 July, has already begun drawing up a shopping list of the game's top stars.

Backed by Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich's millions, Scolari looks certain to move for £10m-rated Barcelona star Deco, who has thrived during his time under the Portugal coach.

Other targets are likely to include Valencia's David Villa, AC Milan's Kaka and Barcelona's Samuel Eto'o. But Scolari will also be focused on keeping Chelsea's top players and will start by convincing defender Ricardo Carvalho to sign a new deal.

Scolari has enjoyed a great relationship with the 30-year-old during his five years with Portugal and a contract worth £100,000-aweek is understood to be waiting when he returns from Euro 2008.

Scolari's appointment on a four-year deal ends the managerial uncertainty at Chelsea and may also help keep Frank Lampard, who is due to resume contract talks after returning from holiday.