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Ballack's Blues future in balance
MICHAEL BALLACK will have talks with Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich today as he bids to save his Stamford Bridge career.
But Joe Cole’s contract negotiations are still at an impasse, fuelling fears his days at Chelsea are over. Ballack’s World Cup hopes were shattered by the tackle from Kevin-Prince Boateng in the FA Cup fi nal that tore ankle ligaments. But that has given him the chance to sort out his Chelsea future. Germany captain Ballack has been holding out for a two-year deal, with an eye on playing in the 2012
European Championships, after which he intends to retire. Schalke have made approaches to take Ballack,
33, back to the Bundesliga, but he is settled in London and not keen on a move. Chelsea have so far only
offered a one-year extension with an option for another year, but Ballack said: “I think I’ll continue playing for Chelsea, as I keep getting calls from the club; people trying to comfort and inspire me. All of this suggests I will stay at Chelsea.”
Cole has rejected Chelsea’s £85,000-a-week offer, wanting £100,000, and a source said: “Joe is waiting for Chelsea to get back to him. The ball is in the club’s court.”