Chelsea have denied making a bid for Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o despite claims from the Cameroon international he has received offers from the Blues, Tottenham and Inter Milan.

The 27-year-old, who is currently in Scotland with Barcelona, told Corriere dello Sportyesterday he has received a "few important offers. Which ones? Chelsea, Tottenham and Inter."

But Chelsea sources, who are currently with the club in China as part of the Blues' pre-season tour, denied making an offer for Eto'o.

A club spokesman said: "We deny making a bid or any offer for Eto'o."

Eto'o's agent, Jose Maria Mesalles, also refused to rule out the possibility of the former Real Mallorca striker remaining at the Nou Camp despite speculation over his future.

Michael Essien, meanwhile, has signed a new five-year deal. The Ghana international is therefore contracted to the club until 2013.

Essien's commitment follows yesterday's confirmation that goalkeeper Petr Cech had signed a new five-year deal.

Essien, who signed from Lyon in 2005, said: "I am really pleased to have extended my contract with Chelsea. I am very happy here. We have a great team and fantastic fans who have always made me welcome.

"With the addition of the new manager (Luiz Felipe Scolari), I am feeling very positive about the season ahead."

Scolari, who took over from Avram Grant recently, was pleased to tie Essien down amid continued speculation about the future of fellow midfielder Frank Lampard.

"I have not been here long but it is clear to me that Michael Essien is one of the best midfield players in the world," he said.