No to Mutu-Vieri swap

Chelsea have rejected the offer of a swap deal with Internazionale involving Christian Vieri and Adrian Mutu.

Inter are keen to offload Vieri following a recent dispute and proposed an exchange that would have seen Mutu go to the San Siro.

Club directors Mario Branca and Gabriele Oriali met Chelsea at Stamford Bridge yesterday.

The Mutu swap was proposed by Inter last week but immediately dismissed. They may now be attempting to revive interest in a straight money deal for Vieri. Mutu is an integral part of Claudio Ranieri's plans and has returned to form after a barren spell, scoring three goals in the last two games.

Chelsea's interest in Vieri is waning anyway following his hesitation over a deal last summer and they will not match Inter's £21million valuation.

A club source said: "Mr Abramovich was not impressed by Vieri's actions last year and he was asking for silly money. Inter may be trying to get rid of him."

Inter do appear determined to sell Vieri after a series of bust-ups between player and club. The 30-year-old refused to take part in Tuesday's Italian Cup clash with Udinese and has been fined after coach Alberto Zaccheroni demanded his appearance.

The Italy striker stayed in Milan for treatment on a knee injury and sources close to the player indicate he is seeking to terminate his contract.