Mourinho's hint on Shevchenko

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho admits he is looking for a new forward – and can see why Andriy Shevchenko and Samuel Eto’o are being linked with a big-money to Stamford Bridge.

The Portuguese boss expects Michael Ballack to join on a free transfer to strengthen his midfield, while he appeared to suggest Hernan Crespo could be on his way out of the club with a move back to Italy.

Mourinho said: “Either you find young players with great potential or you point towards world-class players like Ballack.

“Ballack should sign. We are looking for a forward and it’s normal that Shevchenko and Eto’o’s names are mentioned. We will see what happens.”

Speaking about Crespo’s future, Mourinho added: “Hernan is a Chelsea player, but he’s never hidden the fact that his wish is to return to Italy.

“He has always been very correct. I have allowed him to go, from Monday he will be with the Argentina national team. We will evaluate the alternatives.”

Mourinho also insisted his future lies in Italy – but says he is going nowhere for at least the next four years.

He told Italian sports daily Gazzetta dello Sport: “I’ve never changed my mind. After Chelsea I want to coach in Italy. But I have no intention to leave tomorrow. I am under contract with Chelsea until June 2010.”