Chelsea are plotting a transfer move to sign Bayern Munich defender David Alaba at the end of the campaign, with Thomas Tuchel determined to bolster his defence, according to reports.
Alaba has entered into the last six months of his current contract at Bayern and Real Madrid are the frontrunners to land the player on a free transfer.
Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea have also been mooted as possible suitors for the Austrian defender, who has won nine Bundesliga titles and two Champions Leagues at the Allianz Arena.
According to The Guardian, Chelsea’s interest in Alaba is genuine and they are preparing a move to hijack Madrid’s bid for his signature as Tuchel looks to put his own stamp on the team.
The report claims Tuchel has prioritised strengthening at the defence since replacing Lampard at the club and the German is said to be a huge admirer of the left-back.
Bayern’s attempts to tie Alaba down with a new deal have proved unsuccessful and the player is keen for a fresh challenge away from Germany.
Meanwhile, Alaba isn’t the only Bayern player attracting interest from the blues ahead of the summer transfer window.
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Reports emerged this week that Niklas Sule had emerged as a key target and the Germany international is open to the idea of moving to the Premier League.
However, Bayern manager Hansi Flick brushed off these reports at his press conference on Wednesday and said he was pleased when his players are linked to rival clubs.
Asked about the rumours linking Sule with Chelsea, Flick said: ‘It is of course also nice for us when other clubs are interested in our players. ‘At the moment, the defence is doing very well and Niklas is definitely an option, both in central defence and as a full-back.’
He added: ‘I’m very happy with his development. ‘Niklas is a very fast player, who is very good on the ball, detached and with the ability to make an impact on the game from the back.
‘His physical attributes are an absolute strength. That’s why I’m glad he’s in my team. ‘He has a contract with us until 2022. We will see how it develops, how and where he sees his future.’
