Blues dismiss Villa rumours
04 Apr 2007 - 07:37:53
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has dismissed recent speculation linking his club with a summer swoop for Valencia striker David Villa.
Speaking ahead of the Champions League clash between the two sides, Mourinho insisted that the Blues will not pay over the odds for players any more.
He said: "He is a great player and yes, I think he could play in a big team, but Chelsea don't want to sign him.
"We have got two excellent forwards as things stand. Also, from what I hear about the price, they are asking silly money for him.
"As you see all over the game these days, we hear daft prices mentioned for players. I can tell you that here at Chelsea it is all over - spending silly money."
Spain international Villa, 25, has netted around 40 goals for Valencia in less than two seasons at the Mestalla.
Meanwhile, Mourinho has warned his players to be ready for a culture shock when Los Che visit Stamford Bridge.
He added: "We have played against Spanish and Portuguese teams a lot of times and the mentality is different.
"The pure English mentality we have in the Premiership, where nobody cheats, well almost nobody, where people try to be correct and respect opponents, is sometimes a bit different when you play in UEFA competitions.
"You have to be ready to be intelligent, but I see Valencia as a team that likes to play good football."