Antonio Conte has urged that Chelsea must not sell star duo Thibaut Courtois and Eden Hazard if they are to compete for trophies in the future.

Both Hazard and Courtois have been heavily linked with moves to Real Madrid after reportedly turning down contracts at the club.

And although it may be too early to speculate whether or not they want to leave, it is a worrying rumour as the duo are easily some of Chelsea’s most vital players.

Speaking out over the rumours, Blues boss Antonio Conte insisted it is pivotal that they are not sold.

“You are talking about two important players for us,” said Conte.

“It will be very important to continue with these types of players especially for your ambition to try to compete for something important.

“It is important to try and improve your team, to strengthen and not to sell the best players.”

Asked about whether Courtois may be looking to move to Spain to be with his family, Conte said: “I don’t know about this issue.

“When you are in a great club and you trust in the project, you want to stay. I think the family is not a problem.

“This is a private conversation between the player, the agent and the club.

“If you ask me, for sure I hope he stays.

“My answer is always the same. This is a private conversation between the club and the player and the agent of the player.

“The same picture is for Eden. I am proud to have him in my squad and to work with him.

“He is a good guy and he has a lot of space for improvement and to become one of the best players in the world.

“But on this issue, I repeat, this must be a private conversation.”
[Quotes via Sky Sports]