Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho does not know whether Petr Cech's agent is being truthful by claiming that the Blues have given permission for the goalkeeper to speak to other clubs over a move.
Cech's agent has insisted that he does have permission to talk to clubs over a move for his client, with Arsenal, Roma and Besiktas all linked with the Czech Republic goalkeeper.
But Mourinho wants to keep hold of Cech, claims he is optimistic that he will be able to do so, has cast doubt on the agent's claims and insisted that whatever happens, Chelsea have a big say in the shot-stopper's future.
"I don't know that it's absolutely true what the agent is saying or maybe it is, but after that the player has a contract with Chelsea and Chelsea will also have a very important say in the decision", the Portuguese told a press conference.
"I keep saying the same: I want my best players, Petr is one of my best players, I want my important players, Petr is one of my important players – so I want him to stay", he added.
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Mourinho also says that he is optimistic that Cech will stay put at Stamford Bridge into next season.
"I expect it because I am positive, optimistic and I would like him to stay.
"So yes, I am optimistic that he can be here next season."
Cech is keen to play regular first team football next term having been dislodged from between the sticks at Chelsea by Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois this season.
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