Parma still chasing Borini

Parma president Tommaso Ghirardi has not given up hope of signing Chelsea striker Fabio Borini.

The Serie A club are looking to strengthen their attacking line by acquiring the 19-year-old Italian before the transfer window closes.

Ghirardi said on the club's official website, http://www.fcparma.it: "We have started talks with the player.

"But for the time being Borini is a Chelsea player.

"We are nevertheless optimistic that this transfer will be completed."

Borini, who has not made a first-team appearance for Chelsea this season, has yet to sign a contract extension with the Blues with his current deal ending this summer.

The Italy U-21 player joined Chelsea from Bologna in 2007 and has been sidelined since early December after undergoing shoulder surgery.