Tuchel: No regrets over Christensen deal talks
Thomas Tuchel insists his public efforts to try to convince Andreas Christensen to sign a new Chelsea deal did not backfire.
The defender is understood to be on the brink of completing a free transfer to Barcelona this summer.
Christensen appeared closetoagreeinganewchelsea contract in November, with Tuchel even challenging the 25-year-old to committotheclubinordertofulfil his rich potential.
Christensen changed agents in December however, and the arrival of new advisers ushered in an apparent change of heart on his long-term future.
Barcelona expect to take Christensen to the Nou Camp in the summer, with Chelsea boss Tuchel insisting any decision from the Denmark star must be respected.
Tuchel was also adamant Christensenwillcontinueto givehisallforchelsea,starting with tonight’s Champions League quarter-final firstlegagainstrealmadrid.
Asked if public overtures towards Christensen might have unwittingly worked against Chelsea, Tuchel replied:“thesituationofthe club was pretty sure. I think I gave you an honest statementthatheisinexactlythe right place for his journey.
“That he could continue with this club and become the defender he can be.
“In my opinion, he shouldn’t forget where he comes from, where his eduction comes from, where is home and that’s just my opinion. He needs that kind of environment to bring the best out of him. That's just my opinion and I gave it some weeks ago.
“If he decides to take his career elsewhere, it is his decision. We understand and don’t need to agree.”