Hertha track Kaluzny

The versatile 28-year-old, who can operate in defence or midfield, has been a tower of strength for The Lausitzer this season despite the club sinking to the bottom of the 18-strong Bundesliga.

Polish international Kaluzny insists that he is willing to stay at Cottbus - even if they go down - and honour his contract that is due to expire in 2004.  

"I have no problem seeing out my contract," vowed Kaluzny.

"I would play for Energie at a lower level. I feel good at Cottbus."

General manager Klaus Stabach is aware that a number of German clubs are monitoring the powerful Pole but will not let the player go on the cheap.  

"Nothing will happen for under four million Euros," said Stabach.

Hertha are rumoured to be willing to pay ‚é¼2 million for Kaluzny and Cottbus, who are nine points from safety, may decide to cash in on the Pole to slash the wage bill for next season when they will be in the German Second Division barring a miraculous run of form.