Antonio Conte Talks Michy Batshuayi Future Amid Edin Dzeko Rumours

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte said he does not know if Michy Batshuayi will remain at the club this January after the Belgian netted a brace against Newcastle United on Sunday, amid rumours the Blues are pursuing Edin Dzeko.

According to Sky Sports, he said:

"If the club decides to add another player, I don't know if Michy wants to stay or go on loan. This is a player decision, not mine. I want to continue to work with my players.

"I don't know what will happen but when you have to play in the Champions League and FA Cup, three strikers is the minimum. Then we have to see what will happen in the transfer market."

Despite Conte's assertion that it will be up to Batshuayi, the player himself pointed to the Italian, per the Daily Mail's Oliver Todd: "I work everyday and today I am very happy here. I don't know [on my future], it's better you speak to Conte."

Borussia Dortmund and Sevilla are said to be interested in a loan deal for the forward, while Chelsea are set to continue negotiations with Roma for Dzeko on Monday.

Batshuayi scored twice in the 3-0 FA Cup win over the Magpies, putting him close behind the Blues' top goalscorers, per OptaJoe:

His impressive record comes despite playing just 1,070 minutes this season, whereas Alvaro Morata and Eden Hazard have played 2,055 and 2,263, respectively.

Indeed, it was only his 18th start for the Blues overall since arriving in the summer of 2016, but he has now scored 19 senior goals for the club.

MailSport's Charlie Skillen praised his recent performances, as did football writer Garry Hayes:

The 24-year-old may still be rough around the edges, but he's largely made the most of some highly limited opportunities at Stamford Bridge.

Further depth up front would be an asset for Chelsea, but Batshuayi deserves a greater chance than he has received—the club are unlikely to regret it if they keep him.