Brazilian club Santos claim they have rejected a bid from Chelsea for teenage sensation Neymar. The 18-year-old has emerged as one of the hottest properties in world football having bagged 27 goals in all competitions since the turn of the year.

There was huge pressure on Brazil coach Dunga to include Neymar in his 23-man squad for the World Cup finals in South Africa, but the youngster did not make the cut.

Reports suggested that the Blues had lodged a 20million euros (£16.7million) bid for the gifted forward as Carlo Ancelotti looks to bolster his striking options.

A statement from Santos read: "Santos FC declare they have received an official proposal from Chelsea FC of England for the economic rights of forward Neymar."

But the statement "reiterates that Santos FC have no interest in opening negotiations".