Irish International Damien Duff, who has begun talks to move to Chelsea, has spoken out over his proposed move to Stamford Bridge. The 24-year-old Dubliner has stated that he believes the £17million price-tag Chelsea have agreed with Blackburn Rovers to be a ridiculous price to place on his head.
In an interview with the London Evening Standard, Duff commented: "It is a stupid price with the way the game has gone. But at the end of the day, it is all about money with football directors."
The Blackburn winger has been at the centre of transfer speculation ever since his dramatic displays with the international side at last summer's World Cup. However, despite interest from Manchester United, Duff put pen to paper on a four-year deal with his employers at Blackburn last September. The deal, however, contains a clause that allows Duff to speak to any club that matches a certain fee outlined in the contract.
After having two initial bids rejected, Roman Abramovich's Chelsea have met that fee and triggered the clause in Duff's contract.
With the backing of their new owner, Chelsea will take their summer spending to £30m should Duff sign. In the last week the Londoners have been boosted by the arrival of Cameroon international Geremi and former West Ham United defender Glen Johnson.
Filed by Stephen Cummins
