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Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic talking with other clubs, confirms Antonio Conte

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Chelsea boss Antonio Conte confirms defender Branislav Ivanovic is in talks to leave the Premier League leaders.

Chelsea head coach Antonio Conte has confirmed Branislav Ivanovic is talking with other clubs about a possible move before Tuesday's transfer deadline.

Ivanovic has been at Chelsea since 2008, winning two Premier League titles, three FA Cups, and the Champions League, Europa League and League Cup once.

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The Serb scored in Saturday's 4-0 FA Cup fourth-round win over Brentford but it was just his 16th appearance of the season under Conte.

West Brom boss Tony Pulis ruled out a move for the 32-year-old on Monday but Ivanovic has been linked with Russian side Zenit St Petersburg and Conte is waiting to see if any deal materialises.

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The Italian said at his media briefing on Monday: "Honestly, I didn't speak with the player about this decision.

"For sure we know is talking with other clubs but until now I don't know anything. We have to wait.

"He has played a lot of games for Chelsea and has won a lot here. He is 32 years old and can play many more years at the top level but it's important to respect the player's decision.

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Branislav Ivanovic's Chelsea future is not certain, according to Antonio Conte
Image: Ivanovic has won a string of honours with Chelsea since arriving in 2008

"If you are not playing a lot, you can make a decision to go to another team but, with respect for him, I am sorry to see him go.

"When you start the season with a certain group and you try to create a link between the staff and players, we are sorry if someone decides to go away.

"But we know it is football and we are prepared for every situation".

Conte also had nothing further to report on the back-up goalkeeper situation at Stamford Bridge.

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Thibaut Courtois' current deputy Asmir Begovic is reportedly keen on a move but the Blues, who have tabled a second bid for Celtic's Craig Gordon, will only let the Bosnian leave if they bring in a replacement.

"I haven't [got any] news about Asmir," said Conte. "I think that we have to wait and we will see the situation tomorrow

"He wants to play every game but knows our situation and, if we are able to find a good replacement, he can go.

"But if not, he will stay with us and fight with us to win the title".

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