Hands off Deco, Chelsea warned

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has insisted playmaker Deco is not for sale.

Deco admitted yesterday he could be tempted by a switch to Chelsea and a reunion with his former coach at Porto, Jose Mourinho.

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However, Laporta said: "I confirm what was said by (sporting director) Txiki Beguiristain - Deco is not for sale. He is a player who can contribute a lot to the team and he is not on the market."

Deco, 29, himself insists he is currently happy at the Nou Camp, but admits he would seek an exit if he was no longer wanted by the Catalan giants.

"I have always said that," he said. "I am a professional who has chosen to be here because I love Barca, but life always goes on. The day could arrive when Barcelona do not want me, but it seems that that day is not yet here."

Regarding the comments from Laporta, Deco added: "This leaves me very happy. If the club do not want to sell me, the coach wants me and I want to continue, then that is how it will be. (I want) to fight to play and help Barca return to being champions."