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

Blues linked with Varane

Chelsea have received a huge boost in their reported chase of Real Madrid centre-back Raphael Varane.

According to The Athletic, it is highly likely that the Frenchman will leave the Spanish giants this summer with the club eager to cash in on the 28-year-old.

Varane’s contract expires at the end of next season, and it is believed a move to the Premier League could be the player’s next destination.

The Blues are reportedly interested in further strengthening our defence this summer and the World Cup winner is seen as one of the top candidates to bring to Stamford Bridge.

The report states that Real Madrid have put a £40 million price tag on the player and alongside Chelsea, both Manchester clubs are also interested in Varane’s signature.

Varane has won 19 titles since moving to Spain, including four Champions League trophies and four La Liga titles.

Ferdinand hails Kante

Rio Ferdinand has labelled Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante the most valuable player at Euro 2020.

Speaking on the BBC, the former Manchester United centre-back praised the Frenchman for his influential performances this season for club and country.

‘I would go as far as to say he is the most valuable player in his tournament, if not in Europe completely,’ Ferdinand said.

‘I think a big part of his game is he surprises you.’

Kante is enjoying a good Euro 2020 campaign, finishing Group F on top and undefeated.

‘I know we all know him,’ Ferdinand added. ‘But there are elements of his game where he comes out of nowhere because he’s so quick.

‘He anticipates things so well. He is the most valuable player.’

Souness backs Gilmour

Liverpool legend Graeme Souness wants to see Blues midfielder Billy Gilmour follow in the footsteps of Phil Foden by remaining patient for his opportunity at Chelsea.

Writing in his Sky Sports column, the Scot praised the 20-year-old for his recent performance for his national team at Wembley against England.

‘I’d personally keep him at Chelsea,’ Souness said about the further development of the midfielder. ‘What made me better, I was 23, went to Liverpool and I was playing with fabulous players in training every single day.

‘Chelsea have got bundles of them. That will improve him more than playing in a lesser team where it’s a battle every week.’

Souness also hailed Gilmour for his Star of the Match performance in the goalless draw against the Three Lions.

‘He was willing to take the ball in tight areas,’ Souness added. ‘There was so much to admire. I was concerned about the tempo of the game and was thinking he’d blow up but he didn’t.

‘He showed real character and wanted to be the boss on the pitch.’