Charlton today dismissed an approach from Chelsea for Scott Parker and insisted the midfielder is "not for sale".
The Addicks are fourth in the Barclaycard Premiership, thanks in part to the form of the highly-rated 23-year-old, and it seems their London rivals wanted to make Parker their next acquisition after owner Roman Abramovich spent over £110 million sterling on players before the transfer window closed on August 31st.
Chelsea have yet to buy again since the window reopened at the start of this month, but Charlton chief executive Peter Varney said: "Scott Parker is not for sale and we do not welcome this enquiry.
"Scott signed a new contract with the club in the summer and he is a vital part of our plans as we continue the process of establishing Charlton as one of the top clubs in the country.
"We sincerely hope that Chelsea will accept our decision in this matter," added the statement on the club's official website, www.cafc.co.uk.