Inter deals speculation mount

Inter Milan say reported Chelsea target Mario Balotelli is not for sale, while Inter's Sulley Muntari wants Michael Essien to join him.

In a week of several links between the two clubs, starting with denied speculation that Blues striker Didier Drogba had been holding talks with the Italian Serie A giants about a move to link up with former boss Jose Mourinho, more possible deals have been thrown up by the media.

However suggestions that 18-year-old Italy Under-21 star Balotelli could be set to swap the San Siro for Stamford Bridge in January's transfer window have been played down by Inter, who are desperate to keep the player.

Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti said: "Balotelli is not for sale. He is one of our players and will remain at the club."

Meanwhile Inter's former Portsmouth midfielder Muntari has urged Chelsea star and fellow Ghana team-mate, Essien, to join him at the club.

"Essien is like a brother to me," Muntari told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

"When Inter made it known that they were interested, Michael called me up and told me I should agree to the move without any doubt because Jose Mourinho is a great coach.

"I already enjoy playing alongside Essien in the national side and hopefully he will move here too."