Real Madrid's ZZ too old for Chelsea

Chelsea acting chief executive Paul Smith has ruled out a move for Real Madrid Zinedine Zidane - insisting the World Player of the Year is too old.

Smith said: "There is no question about the player's calibre. Zidane is a remarkable talent."

"But he has possibly two or three years left at the top and we would not be interested."

"In theory, we could afford anyone we want. But it has to work out on a precise calculation."

"Players have to represent good value. The club is trying to build a team for the future and must sign players that fit in with that building process as well as having the right character."

"We can afford whoever we want but price does not tell you everything."