Didier Drogba believes keeping Frank Lampard and John Terry at Chelsea is more important than winning the UEFA Champions League.
The English duo have yet to agree new deals with the club and speculation is continuing to mount that they could leave Stamford Bridge in the summer.
Chelsea are still in the hunt for the Premiership, FA Cup and Champions league, but Drogba feels the contract issues of Terry and Lampard should remain a top priority.
"Signing up John and Frank is the biggest thing we can do. Bigger than winning the Champions League," Drogba said in the newspaper.
"They are part of the history of Chelsea, they have created so much and I don't believe any supporter can accept next season - or the future without them.
"We should do everything to make sure they are here.
"We want to win the European Cup this year but they are players that can help you win it for the next five or six years.
"How many players have a leader like Terry? He is a rock for us and losing him would break a lot of clubs."
Joe Cole, meanwhile, has revealed that his return to action following a foot operation in January has stunned medics.
"The surgeons and all the medical people did a great job on my foot but they said I wouldn't play again this season," he explained.
"So everything that happens to me now is a huge bonus.
"As a footballer, your long-term fitness is first and foremost in your mind but the operation was a success and I've been able to come back earlier than expected."
Cole is now hoping to help Chelsea claim some more silverware after missing their triumphant Carling Cup campaign.
"Obviously four trophies is a tall order but we're going for it," he said.
"It's a cliche but we have to take each game as it comes."
they will most likely sign a new contract. its just a matter of time