Chelsea rule out selling Cole

(GETTY IMAGES)

Chelsea have warned they are not willing to sell Joe Cole after the England midfielder was linked with a move to Tottenham.

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp is a long-time admirer of the former West Ham player, but Chelsea moved swiftly to quash suggestions Cole could leave Stamford Bridge this summer.

A statement from Chelsea read: "Contrary to media reports Chelsea is not, and will not be, considering any offers for Joe Cole.

"Our sole focus, as is Joe's, is to complete his rehab and get him fit as soon as possible so that he can play a major part in the new season."

Cole missed the last four months of last season with knee ligament damage and suffered a minor setback during pre-season which forced him to miss Chelsea's trip to the United States.

Chelsea fringe striker Franco Di Santo is having talks with Blackburn regarding a season-long loan.

The 20-year-old Argentinian joined Chelsea from Chilean club Audax Italiano in January 2008.