Chelsea may yet have an opportunity to sign Bayern Munich star David Alaba despite recent setbacks.
The versatile Austrian is available on a free transfer this summer after he decided to pursue a new challenge after more than 11 years at Bayern Munich in all.
The 28-year-old, who has become a serial winner in Germany, winning nine Bundesliga titles and two Champions League titles, is an attractive prospect for clubs around Europe.
And that's why Chelsea were very much interested in making a move, becoming one of the earliest clubs to be credited with interest ahead of Alaba's expected departure.
Reports claimed Chelsea were one of the first clubs approached by Alaba's agent when the Austrian decided he would be calling it a day at Bayern after this season.
But it appears Alaba has since decided he wants his next challenge to be in La Liga, amid interest from both Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Recent reports suggest it's the latter who will win Alaba's signature this summer with talks already underway ahead of a proposed deal.
But while Alaba's agent, Pini Zahavi, admits the defender has indeed made up his mind, he does offer some hope to the likes of Chelsea, confirming that talks with other clubs are also ongoing.
"David has decided who wins the race, but we are still speaking with other clubs," he told Kicker, adding: "There is no deadline."
Chelsea missing out on Alaba wouldn't be a disaster by any means with the Blues having plenty of cover at centre-back between Thiago Silva, Kurt Zouma, Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger.
Thomas Tuchel also has Cesar Azpilicueta, who plays as part of a central back three in the regularly used five-at-the-back system.
