Bakayoko makes decision on Chelsea future as Sarri exit nears

Chelsea midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko will stay with next season and will not complete a permanent move to AC Milan, according to his agent.

The Frenchman moved to the Rossoneri last summer in a season-long loan deal, with Milan having the option to buy him outright for €35million this summer.

Bakayoko, who was a £40million signing from Monaco in July 2017, was booted out at Stamford Bridge last summer without even playing for Maurizio Sarri and the Italian’s impending departure has probably played a role in the return of the 24-year-old.

Bakayoko struggled to begin with at Milan, even being publicly criticised by manager Gennaro Gattuso, but then became one of the most important players in the team.

It seemed as though a permanent deal would follow, however missing out on the Champions League on the final day of the season has likely forced Milan to re-evaluate their summer transfer plans, plus incoming boss Marco Giampaolo will have had a huge say on the business done.

Now, Bakayoko’s agent has revealed that the former Monaco man will be playing at Stamford Bridge next season despite reports linking him with a move to rivals Inter.

“There are some rather interested clubs, we have received so many proposals, but we give priority to Chelsea,” he told L’Equipe.

“There is the Champions League and we are looking for stability, Tiémoué has decided to stay in London.”