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Old Trafford boss Sir Alex Ferguson is believed to have identified the forward as the man to rejuvenate his side's faltering season.
But, amid reports of a £10million swoop when the transfer window opens in January, Ranieri emphasised just how much the 24-year-old loves life at Stamford Bridge.
Recent speculation has focused on the so called “problems” relating to Eidur’s new contract but Claudio was quick to dispel any such disputes.
"Eidur doesn't have a problem with his contract. He'll renew it at the right moment," insisted Ranieri.
"Eidur's okay with us and will stay here with me. We cannot keep anybody who wants to leave - and I like players who want to stay at Chelsea.
"What Eidur feels is important - and I think he's very happy to stay at Chelsea, where we're building a very good and competitive team."
Gudjohnsen's representative Harrison told PA Sport today: "I've heard nothing from Manchester United and you should direct questions about their interests to Mr Ferguson.
"We've had no talks with Chelsea since September as their situation is well documented.
"Apparently their financial position isn't so good, so we've left renegotiation talks until the end of the season.
"We'll speak to them again then and see if the situation has changed."
Ranieri, quizzed about United's interest in the player who scored 23 goals last season, quipped: "Is it only Manchester United who are interested in him?
"Gudjohnsen deserves all the big teams in the world - like Chelsea, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus.
"He's a fantastic striker and it's normal for him to have all this attention."
But Eidur Gudjohnsen was not the main player the assembled journalists chose to focus on. The main line of questioning then turned to Jody Morris. Ranieri only had positive things to say about his in-form midfielder.
“For me, Jody Morris a very interesting player, he is very skilled. He’s a real playmaker when he is in good condition and with him I have another skipper.
“I believe in him. Never I cannot see something about his performance in training sessions, always he is right. Now he continues this consistency on the pitch. I see him as very well and very concentrated.
“He is a good man. He feels Chelsea as much as anybody and if he continues to play this well, his mind stays focussed and he enjoys not another problem. He was fantastic when I arrived and he is fantastic now. But I see him more calm, more concentrated now and I think the past experience has been important to him.”
It amazes me how determined the media are as they continue to focus upon financial “concerns”, player contract negotiations and unrest etc etc. They seem to forget/ignore the side of Chelsea that has crept into 3rd position. A professional Chelsea that has quietly gone about it’s business and got the job done.
In my opinion, if a player wants to wear a Blue shirt then they will! If they are not interested or dedicated to the club and are simply concerned with the vast pay packet then they should simply be let go. Just……let……them………go.
But who’s to say that recent negotiations and it’s surrounding speculation are a “concern” for both player and club at present?
Who’s to say that there is even a problem or an issue?
It’s unfortunate that at this time of year the media have got themselves “over excited” as that transfer window comes into view. Let’s NOT get over excited, or worried, or stressed, let’s just concentrate on consolidation, progression and victory!!
There is no doubt, but today’s battle at Bolton is a test. A real test. Following today’s game we will all have a clear idea and understanding of what this Chelsea is about. This “new” Chelsea.
Today’s result will be a clear indication of this season’s success. Maybe I’m mad (Chelsea Mad) but here’s my theory……
Steve’s Theory:
Chelsea Victory:- Get very, very excited. Anything is possible. Do not underestimate this team!
Draw:- A Chelsea in progression, showing a new steel and solidity. Top three/four position come the end of the season.
Chelsea Loss:- Same old Chelsea…….(but we still love you). Finish the season with UEFA Cup spot. This will allow us the opportunity to continue our trend of an early European exit against a bunch of Norwegian fisherman. Oh how we laugh???!!!***
The full Chelsea squad is:
Cudicini, De Goey, Melchiot, Ferrer, Gallas, Desailly, Terry, Babayaro, Le Saux, Stanic, De Lucas, Gronkjaer, Petit, Lampard, Morris, Zenden, Gudjohnsen, Hasselbaink, Zola.
stevefurlong@chelsea-mad.co.uk