Traore's form in Liverpool's last few games has ended any chance the Blues had of signing him in the January transfer window as Benitez wants the player to remain a Red.
"I want to keep Djimi here," said Benitez today.
"I said when I came that if we trained properly we would increase the level of the players.
"Traore is playing well because he has more confidence. Before the transfer window closed we had to make some decisions on players.
"Djimi was one of those who was worried he would not play a lot. I told him he would play, but I didn't know how many games. I assured him he was an important member of the squad. I wanted to have all the players here so I could fight for every title.
"In August, a lot of clubs spoke to him and his agent but I told him he would play and I wanted him to stay. I want him here for the whole season."