Cole hunt still on despite Boulahrouz capture

CHELSEA have agreed an undisclosed fee for Hamburg’s Dutch international Khalid Boulahrouz.

Boulahrouz, who can play incentre-back or left-back, was known as “Khalid the Cannibal” by Hamburg fans who loved his aggressive tackling style.

The 25-year-old will be in London today to undergo a medical and discuss personal terms.

Jose Mourinho is short of defenders after selling Asier del Horno to Valencia and allowing Glen Johnson to leave on loan.

William Gallas, who is out of contract next year, also wants to quit Stamford Bridge and has fallen out with Mourinho after reporting late for pre-season.

Mourinho’s move for Ashley Cole has ground to a halt but the Blues remain confident of signing the Arsenal full-back.

Assistant coach Steve Clarkeconfirmed the arrival of Boulahrouz will not end the proposed move for Cole.

The Scot said: “Until the end of August we will be looking for good players.

“If Boulahrouz is the only one we can add to the squad we will be happy with that. If we can get someone else, we will get someone else.”

He added: “He is a good competitive player and will be a good addition to our squad.

“He can play centre-back or either full-back. I think he is right-footed and it is important to have one or two players around the squad who can play in a number of different positions.”

Joe Mourinho fears Chelsea may not be ready for the Premiership kick-off as they prepare to bid for a hat-trick of titles. The manager has injuries worries over several players, notably Michael Ballack and Claude Makelele and has only 15 senior players in his squad to face Manchester City tomorrow.

Mourinho said: “We have new players, yes, but we also lost good players and we will have 15 players for this game. I cannot complain because last season it happened to Manchester City when they came to Stamford Bridge. They played with some young boys and without some important players. This time it is for us.”

Mourinho said: “I would not say my squad is stronger now but it is different. We don’t have second-line players like we had in the last two seasons. At this moment the door is open for players like Lassana Diarra, Mikel, Kalou. Are they ready like Gudjohnsen and Duff were?”

Mourinho clearly has Ashley Cole on the brain – even though Chelsea are struggling to complete their move for the Arsenal defender.

Running through a list of Manchester City’s strikers, the Blues boss said Ashley when he meant Andy Cole.

Mourinho is reluctant to recall Gallas to the squad. He has one season left on his contract but Chelsea claim there is no interest from potential buyers.