Thomas
Tuchel has reinforced the message that striker Romelu Lukaku has a "big
part" to play in Chelsea's future plans, but accepts that Antonio Rudiger
may wish to explore alternative options this summer.
Barcelona representatives have met with Rudiger's agents this week, despite
Chelsea boss Tuchel refusing to give up hope of convincing the Germany
international to remain at Stamford Bridge.
The west London club cannot sign or sell any players under the terms of
their current UK Government licence, in light of sanctions on Russian owner
Roman Abramovich.
The Blues cannot pursue new contracts for existing players either, though
Cesar Azpilicueta's extension was triggered via a pre-existing clause.
Tuchel still believes Chelsea have a hope of keeping hold of prized defender
Rudiger, once the ongoing takeover battle is complete, but says that he
would not blame the defender for talking to other clubs.
"I would try to meet him if I were any other club," said Tuchel.
"Still, he's our player and I still think we have a good chance he stays our
player once things are solved for us. Our hands are tied, we cannot offer
him or negotiate or renegotiate with his agents. But I'm still confident."
Tuchel: Lukaku plays a big part in our
plans
Commenting on the future of Lukaku, following the striker's unsettled return
to Stamford Bridge, Tuchel reiterated the club-record signing remains an
integral part of their plans.
The 28-year-old has played second fiddle to Kai Havertz recently, but was on
target during Chelsea's FA Cup triumph over Middlesbrough in March, taking
his seasonal tally to 10 goals.
"We don't reflect on it," Tuchel asserted. "The situation is at the moment,
we cannot talk to players, we cannot sell and we cannot buy. Romelu still
plays a big part in our plans.
"I feel him very motivated, very strong in training. Very much involved when
we do the games. He is a winner, and he will stay a winner. He had a good
match in Middlesbrough.
"In the moment there is no space for bad mood, for disappointment. There are
a lot of matches coming in the decisive weeks of the season. There is no
space for second thoughts. We have to focus. And we need every single player
and of course Romelu."
Captain Azpilicueta stays
Meanwhile, Tuchel believes Chelsea have thwarted Barcelona's attempts to
sign Azpilicueta, after the Blues skipper triggered a one-year extension to
his contract.
Asked about the Spaniard's situation, he said: "Yes, I knew it was going to
happen because I knew the number of games when it was going to happen. It's
a good thing; it's good news for us."
Then asked if he expects Azpilicueta to be at Chelsea next season, Tuchel
continued: "Yes, absolutely. We have a contract, he's our captain, so
there's a very high probability that he will stay. I knew it all the time
that this is very likely to happen.
"He's a regular starter for us. You know how much I rely on him and how much
impact he has on this club and this group. So, it's very good for us."
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