Chelsea boss Antonio Conte was unable to confirm whether goalkeeper Asmir Begovic would still be a Blues player come the end of the January transfer window.

Bournemouth had a £10 million big rejected by the Blues, but Conte confirmed the club have another offer on the table and are “evaluating” what action to take next.

Begovic signed from Stoke City 18 months ago but has played second fiddle to first choice shot stopper Thibaut Courtois since his arrival and may seek a move in search of more permanent game time.

Nevertheless, his manager was keen to heap praise on the Bosnian who he believes to be an important part of the squad both on and off the pitch.

Asmir Begovic with Nemanja Matic

He said: “First of all I want to say Asmir is important on and off the pitch – he knows this.

"There is an offer, me and the club are evaluating his offer but it is important to find the right solution for Asmir and the club because I repeat he is an important player for me.

“It is important to find the right solution. We are evaluating this and I repeat but the club knows and the player knows my position that Asmir is an important player.”

The Chelsea boss was also positive about the returning Nathan Ake who was recalled from his loan spell at Bournemouth this month.

The 21-year-old played regularly for the Cherries scoring three goals in an impressive set of performances that prompted the league leaders to recall the Dutch U21 international and Conte has suggested the full-back is part of his immediate plans at Stamford Bridge.

“Nathan Ake came back with us because I evaluated his situation and our situation and is a good choice for us because Ake is a player than can play in different positions.

Asmir Begovic of Chelsea in action

“In these two years, one and a half years, he plays and improved a lot and now he is ready to stay and help us.

"This is the second week he will be playing with us and I’m pleased to have him.”

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