Branislav Ivanovic not interested in leaving Chelsea despite lack of playing time at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic is reportedly not interested in a move to West Ham United. The 32-year-old Serb has slipped down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge since the arrival of new manager Antonio Conte, who has recently switched to his favoured 3-4-3 formation.

The Hammers are reportedly eager to sign a new right-back during the January transfer window. But Ivanovic is not keen to leave Chelsea and is instead focused on regaining his place in the Blues' first team, according to ESPN.

Ivanovic – who joined Chelsea from Lokomotiv Moscow in 2008 – has not started since the 3-0 defeat to Arsenal on 24 September. In fact, his only appearance in a Chelsea shirt in that time came as a late substitute in the 2-0 win over Southampton at St Mary's.

The Serb's path back into the first team has been blocked further by Chelsea captain John Terry's return to fitness, plus the impressive form of summer recruit David Luiz, who has excelled since playing as part of a three-man defence.

Ivanovic is entering the final six months of his contract at Stamford Bridge and it appears increasingly likely he will leave Chelsea in the summer. However, Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew recently dismissed speculation linking the Eagles with a move for the defender. "No interest at all," Pardew recently responded when asked about those links to Ivanovic.

Ivanovic has won a host of medals during his eight-year spell at Chelsea, including the Champions League title in 2012 and has twice been named in the PFA Team of the Year. But his form has fallen off markedly over the last 12 months, leading many to believe Chelsea will not renew his contract.