These stories are samples pulled from external media sources. They do not represent the views or position of Chelsea Football Club.

Torres linked with Blues

According to the Daily Mail, Chelsea are keeping tabs on Villarreal centre-back Pau Torres, who has been linked with a number of other big European clubs.

The young defender has impressed as a regular starter for Villarreal, who are currently fifth in La Liga, and made his senior debut for Spain last November.

‘Torres, the 23-year-old central defender, has been attracting interest across the continent after impressing during his first full season in La Liga,’ states the report.

‘A host of clubs – including the Manchester sides, Arsenal and Barcelona – have been linked with a move ahead of the summer transfer window.

‘Torres has a release clause of around £45million in his contract, which still has three years left to run.’

Ballack feels Werner made wise choice

Former Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack has said Timo Werner made the right decision to join the Blues, believing he will have a big impact at Stamford Bridge, the Evening Standard reports.

Werner is set to join the Blues next season after a prolific spell at RB Leipzig and Ballack feels his German compatriot will be a good fit in Frank Lampard’s side.

‘If Liverpool was really an option for him, he made the best decision for him, and only he can make that decision,’ Ballack told the i.

‘You have to value certain things, like how much playing time you will get and how important a role in the squad you will have.

‘Chelsea are building a young team, a new team, with a young coach. It is a great project to be part of, given how young Timo is.

‘To be the main striker, at a huge club like Chelsea, is the best place for him. He can have a much bigger impact than he could at Liverpool.’

Mikel to join Baggies?

Sky Sports reports former Blues midfielder John Mikel Obi could be returning to English football at West Bromwich Albion.

The 33-year-old has been without a club since he left Turkish side Trabzonspor by mutual consent in March.

However, the report by the broadcasters suggests the Nigerian could soon be back in top flight with the Baggies.

‘West Brom are understood to be one of a number of clubs exploring the option of signing Mikel on a free transfer,’ states the report.

‘The Baggies are currently second in the Championship and look well placed to secure a return to the Premier League following a two-season absence from the top flight.

‘Mikel enjoyed a trophy-laden 11 years at Chelsea earlier in his career, winning the Premier League, FA Cup, Champions League and Europa League.

‘He also had a brief spell with Middlesbrough in the Championship during the 2018/19 campaign, featuring 19 times, scoring once.’