Werder Bremen and Bayer Leverkusen have pulled out of the running for released Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack.

Ballack has hinted his future could be back in Germany.

Bremen's general manager Klaus Allofs told Kicker: "Although it would be nice it is an illusion."

Ballack played for Leverkusen from 1999 to 2002 but business manager Wolfgang Holzhauser is another who believes the 33-year-old is out of range.

He added: "The relationship between Bayer and Michael Ballack was always special and we were an important step in his career.

"A question is whether we could afford such a move now.

"We have not had any talks on the issue as yet but I must say I have my doubts."