The Times have released an exclusive story to the effect that right-back Branislav Ivanovic will likely sign a new one year contract with Chelsea next month.
There will also be the option to extend the contract for a further year depending on the number of appearances he makes next season.
Ivanovic will turn 32 in February and has been at the club for 8 years.
Ivanovic had an almost flawless record prior to this season being one of Chelsea’s most reliable players. It’s admittedly been hard to watch his decline this season with no apparent explanation as to why.
He’s been one of the world’s best right backs for some time.
Despite this, he’s managed to find some form and is making strides to getting back to the player he was last season.
As we all know after previous contract debacles, Chelsea only offer one-year extensions to players over 30 regardless of their status and Ivanovic is no exception to this rule. This is despite the fact that Ivanovic was originally holding out for a 2-year deal.
Again, according to The Times, both Inter and Fiorentina were keen to sign him on a free transfer this summer when his contract is due to expire.
Of course until he puts pen to paper, there is always the chance that he may move on at the end of this season.
But it now looks more likely he will stay, and deservedly so. The service he has given Chelsea is not to be disregarded, he’s been a top player for a long time not to mention the value of having his experience in the dressing room and a shining example of a professional conduct for any young player.
I’m certain he still has more to give in the blue of Chelsea.
