Graeme Souness does not believe Chelsea need to say goodbye to John Terry just yet.

The 35-year-old centre-back looks set to leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the season as his contract with the club is yet to be renewed.

Regarding the possibility of the Blues skipper leaving, Liverpool great Souness suggests it would be an error of massive proportions of Terry was allowed to depart.

"I cannot believe John Terry won't be with the club next year. I can't think of one reason why they wouldn't want him," he said on Sky Sports' Super Sunday following the 1-1 draw with Manchester United.

"If it's solely down to football reasons he has to be here. He's a leader and he wants to be here. You can spend all the money you want and buy the very best centre-half out there but he is not going to come into the dressing room and have the same influence.

"He might give you the same on the pitch but he will not give you what John Terry gives you in the dressing room. He has a reputation and credibility, which has been built up over 15 years in the first team.

"That does not happen overnight when you go out and buy an expensive player; he has to earn his stripes. No matter how much he costs.

"It would be a mistake at every level if you get rid of John Terry."