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

City attacker linked to Blues

Chelsea have reportedly expressed an interest in signing Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez.

The Algerian has been in fine goalscoring form for the league leaders this season, scoring 21 goals after his double in the Manchester derby on Sunday.

According to a report in the Express, the Blues have identified Mahrez as a target, especially given his contract situation in Manchester.

‘According to Foot Mercato, Chelsea have set their sights on raiding the reigning champions for Mahrez,’ the report states.

‘With Pep Guardiola's unpredictable rotation policy, Mahrez is not a guaranteed starter, and his current deal at the Etihad has less than 18 months to run,’ it continues.

‘But while the Blues are preparing to launch an ambitious summer swoop in a bid to entice Mahrez into spearheading their title charge next year, they're set to face stiff competition from Paris Saint-Germain for the 31-year-old's signature.

‘The French giants are in the market for a long-term replacement for Angel Di Maria, who is out of contract in the summer.’

Chelsea 'join' Nkunku race

The Blues are on one of a number of Premier League clubs closely monitoring RB Leipzig’s Christopher Nkunku, according to The Sun.

The Frenchman has 38 goal involvements so far this campaign, with 13 assists and 25 goals, and can play in a number of positions across the forward line.

‘Chelsea and Man United are reportedly in competition to sign RB Leipzig midfielder Christopher Nkunku,’ The Sun states.

‘Nkunku, 24, has been one of Europe's standout players this term having been involved in 38 goals from 37 games for the Bundesliga outfit.

‘According to Foot Mercato, Chelsea are weighing up a swoop with Thomas Tuchel plotting a reunion with the player,’ the report adds.

‘The French news outlet also states that Manchester City, Real Madrid and former side PSG are keeping tabs on him.

‘Though they have declared that any potential suitor will have to cough up a whopping £62million to sign him.’

Top praise for Mendy

Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez has labelled Blues shot-stopper Edou Mendy as the ‘best in the world’.

In a Q&A posted on the YouTube channel of another of the league’s goalkeepers, Watford’s Ben Foster, the Argentine expressed his thoughts on our number one.

‘I’ve got to say [Edouard] Mendy,’ Maritnez said. ‘He's having clean sheets for fun. He's winning everything. He's having a wonderful season again.

‘I like his story,’ the goalkeeper admitted. ‘A 23-year-old with no club, he got nothing for free. The fact he is winning everything now, shows hard works pays off.’