Crespo will cost you, José tells Milan

CHELSEA coach Jose Mourinho has opened the door for the return of loan star Hernan Crespo by insisting AC Milan would have to pay a hefty transfer fee to make the move permanent.

The Argentinian striker joined Milan on loan last summer and has already hinted he would like to stay in Italy.

But Mourinho, who admitted he wants a new striker for next season, hinted Crespo might turn out to be the answer.

The Portuguese explained: “There is a big chance he will come back. He is having a good season and I want him to stay. He is in a Champions League final now but AC Milan will have to pay a lot of money if they want to buy him.”

Mourinho also warned his Premiership champions they face the axe if they rest on their laurels next season.

“I can be in love with players for what they did this season but if they don’t do it next season, I’m not in love anymore. I cannot give Petr Cech the goalkeeper’s jersey just because he was outstanding this season. I cannot say to John Terry that because you were my captain and the best player in England, I cannot promise him that he will play every game. It is about internal competition and I think that’s what brings you big motivation every day.”

To keep that motivation within his squad of champions, Mourinho said he had already selected the areas in which his team needs strengthening in the summer.

The Portuguese coach confirmed he wanted to sign a left-back, midfielder and a striker to compliment his Premiership heroes.

“I spent yesterday morning with Roman Abramovich and Peter Kenyon preparing for next season. This championship is not the end of the process, it is the beginning.”

Chelsea start their party rolling at Stamford Bridge this evening when they are presented with the Premiership trophy but Mourinho is not entirely happy.

“This morning I was speaking to some assistants and players and saying that at this moment a lot of people at our place would be jumping with happiness because we did something great for the club. But we are not happy. We want more.

Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has insisted Real Madrid can forget about trying to sign striker José Reyes.

“I am not aware of Real Madrid getting in touch about José. And I want to keep him here. In my heart of hearts, I think he will be here next season. My determination to keep Jose here is great.

“I do not buy a player of his age to sell him one year later. If Real Madrid wanted to buy him, they could have bought him a year ago. They can forget it.”