Ballack denies move to Madrid is imminent

The digital version of AS reported that Real president Ramon Calderon is determined to sign Ballack, his Chelsea team-mate Arjen Robben and Feyenoord's Royston Drenthe "within 48 hours" so they can play in the Spanish Supercup on Sunday against cup winners Sevilla.

 AS claimed that Chelsea will accept 40 million euros (55.12 million dollars) for Ballack and Robben while rival daily Marca reported that the Londoners would not settle for less than 45 million euros (62.01 million dollars), and that they will spend this money on buying right-back Daniel Alves from Sevilla.

 However, the German international responded through a statement on the Chelsea club website, saying he had no intention of leaving the English Premier League club.

 "I am totally committed to Chelsea. I came here to win trophies and be successful in English football, I want to assure the Chelsea fans of that," he said.

 "I am very happy in London professionally and for my family. The speculation about me leaving is not true. I have no interest in leaving Chelsea and I have had no contact with Real Madrid whatsoever.

 "I am frustrated by my injury at the moment but I am working hard to be fit and hope to be back very soon to join my team-mates."

   With regard to Drenthe, both sports papers said they were confident that Feyenoord will reduce their original 18-million euro asking price for the 20 year-old left-back.//dpa