Chelsea duo Frank Lampard and John Terry have reportedly rejected new contract offers which fell short of top earners Shevchenko and Ballack’s deals. The FA Cup Final preparations for the London club owned by Russian billionaire Abramovich were hampered as speculation grew regarding ultimatums issued during talks. It is understood that the Chelsea owner has blocked any increase on player wages that would see other players earn the same or more than Andriy Shevchenko and Michael Ballack. Both of these players who will incidentally miss out on the FA Cup Final are reported to be paid £121,000 a week before bonuses.

3 Chelsea players are currently in new contract talks. Terry and Lampard are joined by winger Arjen Robben in negotiations. Robben is believed to have been offered a £84,000 a week deal a significant rise from his previous contract. However, England internationals Terry and Lampard who have played a crucial role in the success of Chelsea in recent years have reportedly been offered a £115,000 deal which both have rejected. Whilst both players wish to remain at the club they also wish to be recognized for their loyalty and efforts in bringing success to Chelsea. Time will tell if negotiations are successful but it is hard to imagine that Chelsea would let homegrown stars of such caliber slip through the net.