Chelsea have rejected an approach from Inter Milan about signing Frank Lampard but expect the Italians to be back at some stage.Jose Mourinho has made no secret of the fact that the England midfielder is on his summer wish list, after months of speculation that Lampard would leave Stamford Bridge during the close season.
But having made an official approach for the player, Inter have been told that Chelsea are not interested in speaking to other clubs about the sale of Lampard.
The statement read: "Chelsea Football Club can confirm it has received an official approach from Inter Milan to discuss the possible transfer of Frank Lampard. Contrary to reports no financial offer was made.
"Chelsea FC has informed Inter this morning (Tuesday) that we will not enter into any discussions regarding the transfer of Frank Lampard."
The statement effectively puts to an end the possibility of Inter speaking to the player and clearly Blues boss Big Phil Scolari is determined to have a midfield featuring new signing Deco and Lampard in place for the new season. But there will be great interest now in how Lampard reacts both on and off the field as he is reported to be keen on the move.
He has been on holiday in Italy, where reports claim a deal with Inter had been provisionally agreed.
The 30-year-old has one year left of his current Chelsea contract and Mourinho maintains he doesn't expect Lampard to sign a new deal and is "100 per cent sure" he will join him at Inter next year, when they will be free to approach him without paying a significant transfer fee.
