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

Chelsea to compete for Konate

The Blues are reportedly interested in RB Leipzig centre-back Ibrahima Konate.

According to the Independent, Chelsea are one of the European clubs looking to secure the French international’s services in the summer.

The Blues have been previously linked with another RB Leipzig centre-back in Dayot Upamecano but Konate’s displays have attracted plenty of attention.

The 21-year-old has made 12 appearances for the German side this season and has scored one goal. He is also described as an old school centre-back rather than a ball-playing one.

Konate joins Chelsea’s long list of rumoured defensive targets, which include Atletico Madrid’s Jose Maria Gimenez and German international Niklas Sule.

The Blues are reportedly prepared to fight for Konate's signature as interest swarms from other Premier League clubs including Manchester United and Liverpool.

Ferdinand tips James as one of league’s best

Rio Ferdinand believes Reece James is one of the best right-backs in the Premier League.

Speaking on BT Sport, which was also repeated in the Metro, the former Manchester United centre-back spoke about how the 21-year-old can be a useful tool for Thomas Tuchel.

‘He’s a top player,’ Ferdinand said. ‘I was surprised he didn’t start as soon as Tuchel came in.

‘If he’s watching the videos, this kid is up there with the best right-backs in the league.’

James completed his first full campaign with Chelsea last season and featured 39 times. Ferdinand still believes the England international can continue to improve as he gains more experience.

‘He’s got work to do, defensively he can improve but he’s a young player,’ he said. ‘He needs that time and that tutoring which I’m sure he’ll get now get from this manager.

‘He’s a young kid, got a great attitude and his delivery of the ball is phenomenal and as an all-round package as a right-back, he’s got the lot.’

Drogba’s son signs for Italian side

Didier Drogba’s son Isaac Drogba has signed for Serie D side Folgore Caratese.

According to the Daily Mail, the son of the former Blues and Ivory Coast striker will be looking to continue his father’s legacy in Italy.

The 20-year-old joined the Italian side after spells in the Chelsea youth system and the Under-19s of French club Guingamp, another of his father’s former teams.

Isaac, who also plays as a striker, will be looking to put on his scoring boots as his new team lie seventh in Group A of Serie D and have ambitions of promotion to the fourth tier of Italian football.

Didier began his time in professional football at Le Mans in the second tier of French football. That set the foundation for him to go on and have an illustrious career which was full of honours.

With the Blues, Drogba won four Premier League titles, one Champions League and four FA Cups.