Chelsea coach Avram Grant has dismissed speculation linking the Blues with a summer move for Werder Bremen midfielder Diego.

Reports had suggested the Brazilian was a summer transfer for the Londoners, possibly putting Frank Lampard's future in jeopardy.

But Grant said: "Chelsea are linked with so many players it is impossible to comment every time, but sometimes it is necessary to protect the players we have.

"I can say we have no interest in this player. He is a good player of course, but he is not being considered."

Goal-scoring playmaker Diego has become one of Europe's most sought-after players since his move from Porto in 2006, and was named Bundesliga Player of the Season by Kicker magazine at the end of the last campaign.

He has been linked with a move to Spanish champions Real Madrid in recent months, but signed a contract extension in September which ties him to Weserstadion until 2011.

TEAMtalk / Eurosport