Ballack confirms Chelsea talks

Michael Ballack claims he is “serious negotiations” with Chelsea, according to reports in Germany.

The 29-year-old Germany captain will leave Bayern Munich when his contract expires in the summer.

Ballack said: “I am in serious negotiations with Chelsea.

“Nothing is signed as yet but I know what I want.

“Chelsea is a top club.”

According to the reports, Ballack has spoken directly to Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho.

He added: “We’ve talked. You can assume that I had a good feeling during that conversation.”

Earlier today Bayern general manager Uli Hoeness admitted the Bundesliga leaders had given up hope of retaining the services of Ballack.

“From our point of view, it is clear he will leave the club so there are no more efforts to keep him,” he said.

“It is a professional situation. His contract is finished so it is up to him to decide.”

Hoeness has come under fire from Ballack’s agent Michael Becker for claiming the midfielder is only leaving Bayern for financial reasons.

Becker claims Ballack is making a “sports-related decision” but Hoeness has maintained his stance today.

“I have not criticised Michael Ballack but only made an observation,” he added.

“I am not at all disappointed in him or his behaviour. That is totally normal.

“It is totally wrong to describe us as being angry or anything like that. It is totally the opposite.

“He did wonderfully here and now it is time to get a new club and maybe get more money.

“People who know me will understand that I don’t think it’s a problem what I said. You need to stay with the facts.”