‘Impossible’ for Hazard or Willian to leave Chelsea

Maurizio Sarri has insisted it would be “impossible” for Eden Hazard or Willian to leave Chelsea this month.

The transfer window in England closed on Thursday but remains open elsewhere in Europe.

Reports have therefore claimed that the likes of Hazard and Willian, who were linked with moves away from Stamford Bridge, could yet depart.

In theory that is the case, but as Chelsea would be unable to sign a replacement, Sarri does not believe there is any prospect of key players being allowed to leave.

“It’s impossible because here the market is closed so we cannot change (replace) important players. So now I think it’s impossible,” Sarri said.

Hazard was heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid, who can sign players until the end of the month.

The Belgian has stalled over signing a new deal at Chelsea, where he is under contract until 2010, and recently indicated that he would like to join Real.

But Sarri is convinced Hazard is happy at the Bridge.

“Hazard is with us and there is definitely not a problem,” he said.

“I have spoken with him three or four times and he never said something about the transfer market, so I think he is very happy to stay here.

“I don’t want to discuss about contracts. It’s not my job. My job is on the pitch to improve players and try to win matches, not contracts.

“But I have seen a player who is very happy to stay here, so I think it will be no problem.”

However, fringe players such as Tiemoue Bakayoko could still be shipped out.

AC Milan have discussed a deal to sign the midfielder, while Sevilla are among other clubs interested in him.

Sarri, speaking at a media conference on Friday, admitted: “I think the squad is too large. I think some players have to go on loan, but I don’t know who at the moment.

“I prefer to have 22 or 23 players in my squad and then youngsters. No more.”

Asked specifically whether Bakayoko might go, Sarri said: “Maybe. I don’t know at this moment. You have to ask the club.”