Chelsea have been handed a boost in their reported interest in Bayern Munich star David Alaba.
The Blues have been linked with a move for the versatile Austria international who has just one year remaining on his Bayern contract.
Alaba is set to become a free agent next summer but according to Bild, he is looking to avoid that fate.
The 28-year-old reportedly wants to move this summer if a new deal cannot be agreed to make sure Bayern receive a transfer fee.
And given Alaba's contract talks have stalled, there is a real possibility he could become available, and that might grab the attention of Chelsea.
The Blues have already strengthened in the centre-back position, signing Thiago Silva this summer.
But Alaba could still prove a very useful signing, particularly with the Austrian reportedly desperate to play in his favoured position - midfield.
The Blues are said to be in the market for a defensive midfielder with Declan Rice on the radar.
Alaba could prove a cheaper alternative - albeit significantly older at 28 - but Frank Lampard might not even need a new defensive midfielder if N'Golo Kante sticks around.
Alaba has been with Bayern since 2008 when he joined as a youth prospect from Austria Wien.
He has gone on to nine league titles, two Champions League titles and many more domestic trophies.
