Chelsea believe Fowler deal is dead

Chelsea are still interested in signing Robbie Fowler but admit that "the whole thing would appear to be dead".

Chelsea, who made a £12m bid before Christmas, have asked to be kept informed of any new developments by Liverpool and would quickly resurrect their interest if they were given any encouragement.

However, they are growing less confident that a deal is imminent as they believe Fowler will not be allowed to leave Anfield unless he hands in a transfer request.

Managing director Colin Hutchinson told the Evening Standard: "While we are still monitoring the situation concerning Robbie, it has been going on so long now that I do not think it will ever happen.

"The whole thing would appear to be dead."