Chelsea's Premier League title hopes suffered another significant dent on Saturday with a 1-0 defeat to league leaders Manchester City.
That leaves Thomas Tuchel's side 13 points adrift of the defending champions and the focus may now shift to the three cup competitions the squad remains involved for.
Preparations for the remainder of the season, and next year, will also have begun, with a host of rumours floating around regarding both imminent deals and signings at the end of the campaign.
Foot Mercato states Chelsea have made contact with Ligue 1 side Reims regarding a deal for young striker Hugo Ekitike.
The 19-year-old has courted the attention of mega-rich Newcastle United this month but they could now face competition in the market, with Chelsea said to be looking at a deal for the summer.
Elsewhere, Spanish outlet Marca states that Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo is yet to sign a new deal in Catalonia, with Chelsea among those said to be keeping tabs on the player's situation.
The 22-year-old Uruguayan sees his current deal expire in 2023, meaning he is set to enter the final year of his deal this summer.
Barcelona are yet to reach Araujo's demands, and may have to sell in order to renew his deal, with Chelsea, Manchester United and Real Madrid said to be monitoring the situation.
Finally, Sport states Manchester United and Juventus are leading the charge for Barcelona contract rebel Ousmane Dembele.
The France international is poised for an exit from the Camp Nou in 2022 and Chelsea are said to be behind in the race for his services.
