Contract situation under control: Villas-Boas

Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas says he will not consider selling several big names in January despite their contracts coming to a close.

Didier Drogba, Salomon Kalou and Nicolas Anelka could begin to talk to other clubs in January, but Villas-Boas is confident Chelsea have matters in hand.

“That’s why the talks are ongoing (with Drogba and Kalou),” Villas-Boas told The Guardian.

“We still have plenty of time. Even if it reaches a situation like that, the players’ personality and what they have done for this club allows us to think their loyalty to the team will not be compromised.”

“We would not consider selling them in January. The most important thing is for the club to defend its interests.”

“We know these players are of high importance. That’s why the offers are on the table, apart from with Anelka. End of story. We will try to get them to reach an agreement. But the talks are ongoing.”

The former Porto manager is relaxed about the situation, believing the players’ performances will not be adversely affected despite their uncertain futures.

“We know that, in January, these players are available to discuss their future,” he said.

“But the fact that they are emotionally tied to this club, like Nico (Anelka) too, means we can count on them while they are negotiating. Their loyalty to the club will never be in question.”