Conte all but confirms Dzeko move is off

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Antonio Conte has all but confirmed that Chelsea will not be signing Edin Dzeko.

Chelsea have discussed a deal to sign Roma’s former Manchester City striker but are now looking elsewhere.

Blues boss Conte, who is keen for a forward to be signed before Wednesday’s transfer deadline, said: “He is Roma’s player. I think he will continue to be Roma’s player.”

Speaking at a news conference on Tuesday, Conte was reluctant to confirm that Chelsea are set to sign Dzeko’s Roma team-mate Emerson Palmieri.

The Brazilian is expected to complete a move to Stamford Bridge.

“We have two options, to buy another player or to work with a young player like (Dujon) Sterling, who is young but a very good prospect,” said Conte.

“The club will inform you about new players.

“Palmieri had an important season and had a bad injury. He broke his ligament.

“He is recovering but I don’t know if he is ready to play. He played one game in the Italian Cup but we are talking about a player from another team at the moment.”

Conte also insisted Michy Batshuayi is “in contention to play” against Bournemouth on Wednesday despite reports he is on the verge of a loan move.