• Premier League

Chelsea at risk of losing strike trio for free

ESPNsoccernet staff
October 15, 2011
Didier Drogba is currently considering a contract extension with Chelsea © PA Photos
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Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas says he is prepared to risk writing off millions of pounds in potential transfer fees by not selling Didier Drogba, Nicolas Anelka and Salomon Kalou before their contracts expire next summer.

Villas-Boas has suggested this season is likely to be Anelka's last at Stamford Bridge, while Drogba and Kalou are mulling over contract extensions.

But despite the club reporting losses of £70.9 million in their last annual accounts amid the new era of Financial Fair Play, Villas-Boas remains calm over the future of his strike trio.

"It happens all the time,'' he said. "The most important thing is for the club to try to defend its interests. We know these players are of higher importance.

"That's why the offers are on the table, apart from with Anelka, end of story. We will try to get them to reach an agreement."

Should all three move on, Chelsea would go from having an embarrassment of riches up front to arguably lacking numbers.

"That's why the talks are ongoing," Villas-Boas added. "We still have plenty of time."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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