Incoming Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has told both Cesar Azpilicueta and Pedro that they have a place in his future plans at the club.
The Italy boss will arrive at Stamford Bridge after Euro 2016, and will set about preparing his squad for the new Premier League campaign.
Changes are expected in west London as Conte stamps his mark on the group, but The Mirror claim that he has taken an opportunity in France to talk to two key individuals already.
It is reported that he spoke to both Azpilicueta and Pedro after the last-16 encounter between Italy and Spain last week, and gave them assurances that they will both figure in his plans for next season.
It comes after Athletic Bilbao had reportedly launched a £12m bid for the versatile defender, while Pedro had previously talked up the possibility of a return to Barcelona.
However, despite the money on offer and thoughts of the latter in discussing a potential exit, it appears as though both will remain next year and look to play an important part in Conte’s early success with his new club.
Although there will naturally be a temptation for any new manager to rip up the script and start again in a new position, it would be wise for Conte to consider all his options before he starts making changes.
The 46-year-old would certainly benefit from having Azpilicueta at his disposal next season, particularly given that he is consistent and a reliable figure to have in the dressing room.
Further, Pedro still has plenty to prove after a decent if not extravagant first year in England, and given his pace, movement, quality on the ball and work ethic, he’s arguably a perfect fit for Conte’s plans next season.
In turn, it looks as if both will stay at Chelsea, although Conte has his mind on other things currently as he continues to plot Italy’s path to success in France.