Flamengo haven't shelved hopes of signing Chelsea midfielder Juliano Belletti.

Brazil international Belletti revealed on Twitter that the Blues were refusing to let him leave before his contract ends in June.

Flamengo regret that they won't have the 33-year-old for their assault on South America's biggest competition - the Copa Libertadores - but they are keen to sign him later in the year.

Flamengo are drawing up an 18-month contract and the club's vice-president Marcos Braz said: "For now, Belletti cannot come, but we are still interested.

"I understand the position of Chelsea, who have lost several players to national teams,' said Braz. 'But he can be hired at another time."