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Chelsea planning to get TWO deals tied up as chiefs react to transfer ban uncertainty
CHELSEA are set to tie Willian and David Luiz down to new contracts as they prepare for life under a transfer ban.
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The Blues were handed a two-window ban for breaking rules over signing young players and are hoping to have the decision overturned on appeal.
However, their request for the ban to be frozen while they make their case was recently ruled out and they are now looking to secure the futures of the players already at the club.
Willian’s deal is due to expire at the end of next season but the 30-year-old has already signalled his intention to stay.
Meanwhile, Luiz, 31, is a free agent in the summer but the club remain hopeful he will decide to remain at Stamford Bridge.
Willian said: “I have one year left, but of course I want to play for this club.
“This club is very special to me. I won titles here, I have the affection from the fans and from the people that work in the club.
“I feel comfortable to stay. I am happy when I play well and score goals. I can give a different light.”
Chelsea face the prospect of losing Eden Hazard, with a move to Real Madrid finally expected to happen this summer.
They have already completed the capture of Christian Pulisic from Borussia Dortmund as a potential replacement but are keen to ensure their squad is not weakened further.
American international Pulisic is a right winger by trade but hinted he would be happy to replace Hazard in his position on the left of a front three.
USA national team boss Gregg Berhalter has said he plans to play Pulisic in that position and the player is welcoming a new challenge.
“I think it’s a really good position for me,” he said.
“Obviously I don’t mind where I play on the field, I just like to be in good attacking areas where I can create and help the team score goals because that’s where I feel I’m at my best.
“I like the style that [Berhalter] has and I like that position a lot.
“[Berhalter’s] very focused on all the details of the game.
“I’ve been amazed the first few days with just how much information he’s got across, and how he wants every guy to be on the same page and have a perfect understanding of how we want to go into the game.”