Chelsea could land top-class 28-year-old Bundesliga star on a free transfer

Chelsea keeping tabs on Bayern Munich defender David Alaba

According to Bild journalist Christian Falk (h/t The Express), Chelsea are in the race for Bayern Munich defender David Alaba.

The Austrian star is in the final year of his contract at the Bavarian giants. With his deal expiring next summer, he is free to talk to clubs when the January window opens.

Having made a number of shrewd deals in the summer, the Blues look set to continue their dominance in the market once it reopens in the new year.

According to Falk, the Blues are set to sit down with the player’s agent Pini Zahavi in January with contract talks on the agenda.

The Israeli superagent shares a good relationship with the club and has helped us sign a number of stars in the past. This close relationship could work in our favour.

Signing Alaba would further strengthen a Blues defence that has benefited from fresh blood. The likes of Thiago Silva, Ben Chilwell and Edouard Mendy have had a noticeable impact on our backline.

If the deal occurs, Alaba will be the second Bayern star to leave the club in successive summers. Thiago Alcantara joined Liverpool earlier this year after leading the German giants to another treble.

Jurgen Klopp’s side are also reported to be interested in Alaba. Given their current injury crisis in defence, the news is not surprising.

Apart from both teams, Arsenal too have been linked with the 28-year-old. Given the current stature of the Gunners, it can be argued that Alaba would be taking a step down if he moves to The Emirates.

More Chelsea News

• Jose Mourinho brands Chelsea lucky for having a manageable schedule
• Chelsea ace Kurt Zouma imparts words of wisdom to Eduardo Camavinga
• Edouard Mendy reveals the secret behind his excellent Chelsea start

Alaba has been with Bayern since 2010 and has played an integral role in the club’s success over the last decade. Primarily a left-back, Alaba has transformed into a centre-back in recent years and has excelled in the new position. 

It was reported earlier that the Blues were keen on bringing in Atletico Madrid defender Jose Gimenez. With another centre-back on the agenda, it is difficult to find another player who offers us as much value as Alaba.