Petr Cech: Chelsea keeper 'given permission' to talk to other clubs

Goalkeeper Petr Cech could be set to end his 11-year career at Chelsea after his agent said he has been given permission to talk to other clubs.

The 32-year-old has only made 16 appearances this season, with Belgian Thibaut Courtois now first choice.

"We have been permitted by Chelsea to negotiate with interested parties," said agent Viktor Kolar.

But Blues boss Jose Mourinho said on Friday: "I want my best players. Petr is one of my best players."

Cech joined Chelsea in 2004 and has one year left on his current contract.

Kolar added: "Petr has confirmed his interest to play regularly at a top club. That's the task that we are now working on, but other than that there has not been any other change in terms of Petr Cech's employment and the transfer period only begins on 1 July."

Mourinho said last week he wanted the keeper to remain at Stamford Bridge and he reiterated that position on Friday.

"I don't know that it's absolutely true what the agent is saying. Maybe it is, but the player has a contract with Chelsea and Chelsea will have a very important say in the decision," said Mourinho

I expect [Cech to be at Chelsea next season] because I'm positive, I'm optimistic and I would like him to stay."

The Czech Republic international has won four Premier League titles, four FA Cups, three League Cups, one Champions League and one Europa League title during his 11 years with the Blues.