Chelsea’s hopes of signing Fernando Llorente have been dealt a severe blow after Paul Clement said he’s confident the striker will remain at Swansea.
The Spain international has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge for months.
Antonio Conte worked with the 32-year-old at Juventus and is understood to be keen on linking back up with the forward.
His return of 15 goals last season suggests that despite his ageing years, Llorente still has something to offer.
However Swansea manager Clement is confident the former Sevilla player will remain at the Liberty Stadium, despite Chelsea’s interest.
‘He’s got a year to go on his deal and we’d like him to stay for this year and longer,’ said the former Chelsea coach.
‘He’s a really good player and it’s a shame with the injury he got in the summer – it’s a freak one. He did finish off the season strongly. His goals were vital and we want to have him as an option. When he’s fit, to have him, Tammy [Abraham] and Jordan [Ayew] available is a good thing for me.’
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Clement added: ‘I’m confident [he will stay] because of the conversations I’ve had with Fernando.
‘He’s happy here, he likes the work we’re doing and he likes the way we play. I’m confident he will be here.’
Chelsea are short of attacking options, despite having signed Alvaro Morata from Real Madrid for £60million. The young Spaniard and Michy Batshuayi are the only recognised strikers with Diego Costa having been told he has no future at the club.
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