Amelia dismisses Chelsea link

Livorno goalkeeper Marco Amelia has dismissed reports linking him with a move to Barclays Premiership champions Chelsea, insisting he wants to stay where he is.

The Italy international has been mooted as a replacement for injured custodian Petr Cech, who suffered a serious skull fracture earlier this month.

The 24-year-old, who is considered one of the finest young goalkeepers in Italy and the heir to Juventus’ Gianluigi Buffon, has been a target of top clubs this summer, including AC Milan, Barcelona and Roma.

Amelia has conceded just four goals in seven Serie A games this season to help Livorno remain in sixth position in the standings.

“It would seem disrespectful to talk about this,” said Amelia. “There is a colleague who is out injured and doesn’t know if he will return to play again. My thoughts are with Cech.

“In any case, the last decision is taken by our president (Aldo) Spinelli and I believe we will reach an agreement to extend my contract. My aim is to continue to play in Italy.”