Robben on brink of new Chelsea deal - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

Robben on brink of new Chelsea deal

Arjen Robben is set to sign a new deal with Chelsea that will tie him to the club for another five years.

The 23-year-old, linked with a move to Real Madrid earlier this week, will remain a Chelsea player according to his father and agent.

Hans Robben refuted Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon's claims that the two parties were in the 'early stages' of talks with Chelsea, insisting: "I never met him or anyone from Madrid and did not speak to them."

He added: We're nearly finished negotiating with Chelsea, Arjen will stay another five years with the club."

Robben's decision to stay put follows Ricardo Carvalho and Michael Essien. They both opted to agree to new long term deals while captain John Terry and midfielder Frank Lampard are expected to do the same.

Meanwhile, full-back Geremi has admitted he would be tempted by a return to Middlesbrough.

The Cameroon international spent a very successful season on loan at the Riverside in 2002.

The 28-year-old turned down a permanent move to Middlesbrough but has struggled to become an established first-team member at Stamford Bridge and almost invited the club to make him an offer.

Geremi said: "The option of Middlesbrough is excellent because they are a high-level club and I have already played there. I would go there happily if they made me a good offer."

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