Chelsea are hoping to appoint their new manager before the weekend with Avram Grant emerging as a leading contender to return on a caretaker basis until the end of the season.

Barcelona playmaker Deco has denied reports he has already signed an agreement with Chelsea.

The agent of Barcelona playmaker Deco has denied speculation his client is poised to link-up with Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari at Chelsea.

Luiz Felipe Scolari’s spokesman has denied that the Portugal coach has received an offer from Manchester City to become manager of the Barclays Premier League side next season.