German Giants Rebuff Move for Chelsea's Belgian Star

Chelsea midfielder Kevin de Bruyne appears set to remain at Stamford Bridge after Bayer Leverkusen ruled themselves out of moving for the Belgian international.

De Bruyne has been marginalised in the Chelsea first-team of late under Jose Mourinho and has been forced to train with the club's Under-21 side after a disappointing performance against Swindon Town in the League Cup.

The 22 year old has been linked with a move away from Chelsea in the January transfer window, with Werder Bremen offering to take the midfielder on a second loan spell, while the player's agent has ruled out any departure in the winter.

Leverkusen, who were linked with taking De Bruyne on loan as part of a deal that saw Andre Schurrle join Chelsea, have now ruled themselves out of signing the ex-Genk man, claiming they are overstocked in central midfield.

"We have had an interest in Kevin de Bruyne, of course," sporting director Rudi Voller told BILD. "He is an excellent player.

"But at this point in time, we do not have an interest in his services. We have a strong squad and already have enough quality players in De Bruyne's position."

Mourinho had previously stated that De Bruyne and fellow-countryman Romelu Lukaku would both receive regular first-team opportunities this summer, however neither player remain in the Portuguese boss' current plans.

While De Bruyne's phasing out of the Chelsea first team has coincided with Juan Mata's introduction, Lukaku was sent on a season-long loan to Everton on deadline following the signing of Samuel Eto'o.

The 20 year old had netted 17 times while on loan at West Bromwich Albion last season and has already scored four times for Everton, including against Manchester City prior to the international break.

Roberto Martinez has already confirmed that there is no recall clause on the terms of Lukaku's move to Goodison Park, accentuating Mourinho's mistake of letting the striker leave west London.