Chelsea transfer news: Dimitar Berbatov names the three players Maurizio Sarri needs (Image: GETTY)
Berbatov has now outlined why he believes Chelsea must retain the three players’ services as they go into the Sarri era.
"Chelsea's case is similar to Spurs," said Berbatov. "It will be a huge blow if Eden Hazard leaves for Real Madrid, I personally don't believe that is going to happen but The Blues need to make sure he'll stay.
"The same goes for Thibault Courtois, he's an integral part of their plans. I like him a lot, he's what you want in a goalkeeper and covers the whole goal.
"N’Golo Kante is another that Chelsea need to keep. He's the spine of the team, he controls the pitch and fights for everything.
"It will help with the new manager, Maurizio Sarri, as it will drive competition for places and the squad will want to show how good they are."
Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge revealed this week that he would be surprised if Hazard and Courtois both went to Real.
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Chelsea transfer news: Dimitar Berbatov names the three players Maurizio Sarri needs (Image: GETTY)
Chelsea transfer news: Dimitar Berbatov names the three players Maurizio Sarri needs (Image: GETTY)
"In Eden Hazard we are talking the guy who is central to Chelsea getting back in the top four," said Bridge. “If Chelsea lose Hazard, I'm not putting them back in the top four.
"You wouldn't see Hazard leaving if they do have an agreement with Courtois. His is a personal problem. I'd be very surprised if Hazard and Courtois do go to Real."
Chelsea resume their pre-season campaign on Saturday when they take on Inter Milan at Nice’s Allianz Riviera Stadium.
Dimitar Berbatov has been announced as a global ambassador for Betfair. You can read more from the former Bulgaria international here.