Committed to PEOPLE'S RIGHT TO KNOW
Vol. 4 Num 313 Fri. April 16, 2004  
   
Sports


Samba stars not into 'Blues’


Ronaldinho insists he would not leave Barcelona 'for all the money in the world' after speculation suggesting Chelsea were plotting a summer move for him.

The Brazilian is enjoying a memorable first season with the Catalan giants and has been the driving force behind their renaissance in the second half of the campaign.

The former Paris Saint Germain star has, so far, notched 17 goals and has quickly developed into an idol for the Barca fans.

Reports that Chelsea supremo Roman Abramovich was ready to bankroll a €70 million (£

50 million) swoop for the Samba schemer will have been of major concern to the Camp Nou faithful, but Ronaldinho has moved to set their minds at rest by claiming that there is no chance he will leave.

"Things are going very well and I am not thinking of leaving Barcelona," stated the 24-year-old.

"My head is here and everything is perfect. My family are happy, I am fully fit and nothing is missing."

Speaking of Chelsea's reported interest, he continued: "It is always good to know that my work is pleasing to people and there is interest in what I do.

"However, I would not go for all the money in the world, my happiness is more important than many things.

"Firstly I always think about being happy and doing what makes me content."

Meanwhile, compatriot superstar Roberto Carlos has also moved to deny rumours that he is ready to quit Real Madrid for Chelsea, insisting he wants to sign a new contract at El Santiago Bernabeu.

Reports in Spain on Wednesday claimed the Brazilian full back had negotiated a pre-contract with The Blues that would have seen him move to Stamford Bridge when his current Real deal expires in June 2005.

The move would have forced Madrid to cash in on the dynamic defender this summer or face losing him for nothing at the end of next season.

However, Carlos has laughed off the suggestions insisting he remains fully committed to Los Merengues and dismissed the stories as media invention.

Asked about the Chelsea link, the 31-year-old stated: "I don't know, there is nothing to it. Neither with Chelsea or any other team.

"Whoever says there is needs to prove it. I want to renew (my contract) with Real Madrid.

"I don't know what I have to say. My priority is Real Madrid because I am happy here and identify with the club.

"I have won the best titles here and we can keep on doing so."