Ballack looks Italy bound as Chelsea links dismissed

MICHAEL BALLACK’S likely next destination remains Italy after speculation linking the Bayern Munich midfielder to Chelsea was dismissed by his agent as “boring and tiring”.

The Germany captain could go into the World Cup with his future unresolved, but given his contract in Munich expires this summer.

Unless he makes an about-turn and signs a new contract with Bayern, Ballack will become hot property, as arguably the most valuable player to become available on a ‘Bosman’ free transfer.

Chelsea stayed silent yesterday after they were reported to have sealed a deal which would see Ballack earn £121,000 a week.

It was claimed Ballack had visited London twice to discuss the deal, but the German Football Association’s press officer Harald Stenger said: “One, Michael Ballack was not in London and, two, he has not signed for Chelsea.”

Bayern have not yet given up the task of persuading him to remain with the club and Ballack’s agent Michael Becker admitted all options remained open.

“This is all starting to get boring and tiring,” Becker said. “I can only say that Michael has not signed anywhere.”

Man United have been linked with Ballack, however Inter Milan and Juventus have emerged as favourites for his signature.

Real Madrid could also enter the market for the 29-year-old, although the resignation of their president Florentino Perez may mean their policy of signing ‘galacticos’ comes to an end.

Meanwhile Chelsea’s on-loan midfielder Alexei Smertin looks set to quit Stamford Bridge at the end of the season.

Smertin, currently on loan at Charlton, has received an offer to return to Russia.

“I’ve received an offer from a Russian club and now my agent is considering that,” said Smertin, who is contracted to Chelsea until 2007.