Stuart Pearce has revealed the only contact between Manchester City and Chelsea over new signings has come from the Eastlands outfit.

With John Terry facing possible back surgery and Chelsea struggling badly in defence in their captain's absence, speculation is rife that Jose Mourinho will launch a big-money offer for City's promising England defender Micah Richards when the transfer window opens next month.

However, while Pearce insists he has heard nothing from Stamford Bridge, he confirmed he has been in touch with the champions looking at potential signings, sparking the possibility of a move for Shaun Wright-Phillips, who was sold to Chelsea for #21million 18 months ago.

"There has been no contact from Chelsea, although I have rung them about players coming here," he said. "I am delighted we have interest in our players because it means those players are doing well.

"But I must remind everyone that Manchester City are not in the situation they were two years ago, when we had to sell.

"Players will only leave this club if it benefits the club."

Meanwhile, Pearce has denied suggestions former skipper Sylvain Distin has rejected a final contract offer, insisting he still believes the Frenchman will stay with City.

"We have been talking to Sylvain for 18 months now and I honestly believe he will end up signing a new contract, whether that is next week, next month or in the summer, I do not know."

With Paul Dickov, Darius Vassell and Richards all doubtful for Saturday's trip to West Ham, Pearce is sweating on the FA hearing into Joey Barton's dismissal against Bolton last weekend.

If Barton fails to overturn the red card, he will sit out the Upton Park trip, leaving Pearce facing a midfield crisis as Dietmar Hamann, Claudio Reyna and Michael Johnson are definitely out.