LONDON - Chelsea defender David Luiz has urged Belgian duo Thibaut Courtois and Eden Hazard to also stay put after starring for their country at the World Cup.
Courtois, 26, has a year remaining on his contract and has been repeatedly linked with a move to Real Madrid. Chelsea risk losing him for a reduced fee in January or for free next summer.
The former Atletico Madrid stopper has repeatedly stated his desire to move closer to his two children in the Spanish capital. Hazard, whose deal expires in 2020, has stalled over a new contract offer and has long been the subject of speculation over a move to Real.
"Chelsea wants for the best players to stay," said Luiz. "They know Chelsea a lot, so they know what they've had here, the fun they've had here. Everybody loves them and I hope they can stay."
Sarri said he would sanction Courtois' departure if the goalkeeper expresses a desire to leave following Sunday's Community Shield defeat to Manchester City. The transfer window for incoming players to Premier League clubs closes this Thursday, but Luiz is adamant the Blues have enough quality even if Courtois and Hazard go.
"I want them to stay, because we have top players with the confidence," Luiz said. "If they decide to leave, I think we will continue with fantastic players."
Luiz himself was sidelined by injury and a fallout with Conte for most of last season. But after starting on Sunday, Luis insists he never contemplated leaving Chelsea for a second time and is now keen to show he can be a key figure for Sarri.
Dissapointed with the result and by not winning the trophy. We will work hard to fight back! Thanks for your support 💙 #CFC pic.twitter.com/wzlCOPgJgS
— César Azpilicueta (@CesarAzpi) August 5, 2018
"I was just working and trying to do my best," Luiz added. "Everybody has the opportunity, you just have to show him character, physical quality, technical quality, so since the first day I'm trying to do that."
The 59-year-old Italian's style has been likened to Pep Guardiola's. But while City gave the Catalan time to adjust in his first season in England, there is precious little time for Sarri.
"I hope we can understand it quickly and can fight for all the titles," Luiz said. "When you play for a big club you have to be ready to try to fight for the titles, and we're going to fight for that."