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Chelsea are absolutely not interested in a move for Atalanta star Duván Zapata despite claims to the contrary.

That’s according to journalist Diego Rueda, who says a policy of not signing players over 30 years of age means the striker is not a target for the Blues.

Zapata is enjoying another fine season with the Italian side, with 14 goals and 12 assists in 38 games in all competitions, earning him attention around Europe.

He was recently named as a potential target for Chelsea, who are reported to be on the hunt for a striker this summer after Timo Werner’s difficult first season in England.

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The reports linking Chelsea with an interest stated Zapata was being eyed as an alternative to Erling Haaland, should they fail to convince him to move from Borussia Dortmund this summer.

However, that has now been dismissed out of hand by Rueda, who says there is no such interest in the Colombian.

“What is Chelsea’s interest in Duván? None, there is no offer, there is no interest from Chelsea for the Colombian player,” he told Caracol Radio.

“Chelsea took a decision two seasons ago; not to sign players over 30 years of age. They also have Giroud and Timo Werner, so although they would think of letting Timo go, there is no chance.

“Until today, it’s not real, none, there’s no offer, they haven’t spoken to the representatives, they haven’t looked at the possibility of signing him.

“That is to tell you that after confirming by Italy, with the representatives, by the people close to us; there is no interest from Chelsea for Duván Zapata.”