Sarri planning talks with Chelsea trio

Maurizio Sarri has reiterated that he plans to speak to Eden Hazard, Thibaut Courtois and Willian in person about their Chelsea futures.

New Blues boss Sarri recently denied reports he planned to telephone all three players in an attempt to persuade them to stay at the club.

Hazard and keeper Courtois continue to be linked with Real Madrid, while Barcelona have submitted an offer for Willian.

Speaking after Chelsea beat Perth Glory 1-0 in a pre-season friendly in Sarri’s first match in charge, the Italian said he expected to speak to the trio when they are due to return to training at the end of the month.

All three are currently on an extended break after being involved in the recent World Cup.

“I like to talk to the person face by face. I don’t like to talk to the person on the telephone,” Sarri said when asked about their futures.

“It depends on the club. It is a pleasure to have Courtois, Willian and to have Hazard. But it doesn’t depend on me, so we have to wait.”

Asked when his discussions with the players are likely to happen, Sarri confirmed. “At the end of the month because I think they will arrive at Cobham at the end of the month.”

New signing Jorginho made his Chelsea debut as they comfortably won in Australia, where Pedro scored the only goal of a largely one-sided game, although the hosts had chances late on.

“I am satisfied with the performance of the first half and the first 15 minutes of the second half, but not the last 30 minutes,” Sarri said.