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Pellegrini agent claims Chelsea contact

Manuel Pellegrini won't leave Malaga mid-season © Getty Images

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The agent of Manuel Pellegrini claims Chelsea have asked about his availability - and said that the current Malaga coach would one day like to manage in the Premier League.

Jesus Martinez revealed that AS Roma approached Pellegrini earlier this month following the sacking of Zdenek Zeman, but he turned down the opportunity in order to see out the season with Malaga.

With uncertainty over Malaga's financial situation, and a one-year ban from European competition hanging over them, it has been speculated that Pellegrini will leave La Rosaleda in the summer. Pellegrini has led Malaga to fourth place in La Liga and the last-16 of the Champions League.

Chelsea are under the interim stewardship of Rafael Benitez, but with the Blues struggling for consistency and failing to mount a title challenge he is not expected to be awarded a contract extension. That could open the door for Pellegrini to realise his dream of managing in England.

"Less than 15 days ago we had an offer from Roma, but we declined outright," Martinez told El Mercurio. "We said no because we are midway through the season.

"Chelsea and other clubs have asked, but nothing else official has been said. Manuel would love to manage in the Premier League, but he'd also like to go to Germany, Italy and other championships. There is plenty of time to analyse where he will be next season.

"Manuel has a contract with Malaga. I believe that in April or May we will know clearly what will happen with his future, to see if the sporting project is changing and we need to make a decision. Our first intention is to respect our commitment, but that also depends on the conditions which exist."

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