Gianfranco
Zola says Chelsea are keen to keep Callum Hudson-Odoi and confirmed Bayern
Munich's interest in the winger.
Sky Sports News understands Bayern have made a third bid in excess of £30m
for Hudson-Odoi, who is keen on a move to the Bundesliga, but Chelsea are
thought to value him closer to £40m.
Zola said Chelsea have "proposed a contract for a while", but are being made
to "wait" by Hudson-Odoi, with his deal set to expire in 18 months. It is
understood he rejected this extension offer.
"It's about patience. I believe he has a bright future with us, but he will
have to learn that right now for him it's important to get better and better
every day," Zola said.
"I know Bayern is very interested in him, but we're interested in him as
well. For 18 years old, he's got a lot of potential
"I know he hasn't played probably as much as he wanted, but this is down to
the quality of the players in front of him. I've already told the player:
it's not a waste of time. It's a time you can get better.
"You have to understand the journey's not finished. He's at an age where
it's very important to keep a good attitude. It's not important playing
straight away, playing 20 games, it's important to develop."
Hudson-Odoi has recovered from the hamstring injury he suffered in Chelsea's
2-1 Boxing Day win at Watford and could feature in Saturday's FA Cup
third-round tie against Nottingham Forest at Stamford Bridge.
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