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

Blues eyeing move for Alaba?

According to the Sun, Chelsea are reportedly lining up a bid for versatile Bayern Munich defender David Alaba.

Citing a report by the Athletic, the paper suggests the Blues could look to sign the experienced Austria international instead of Ben Chilwell because of the Leicester City player’s high valuation.

‘[Leicester manager] Brendan Rodgers’ £70million valuation of [Chilwell] has put Chelsea off and it now appears that [Frank] Lampard is trying his luck with highly rated Alaba - who could also be under consideration as Chelsea search for a new centre-back,’ states the paper.

‘The Austrian international has actually played the majority of his games in the middle of the defence for Bayern this season, despite mastering the left-back position in recent years.

‘The 27-year-old's contract does not expire until next summer but Bayern will consider cashing in at the end of this season to ensure they get some money in.’

‘Alaba can play in midfield, making him the perfect addition to many sides. The superstar, 28, has been at Bayern since 2008 and could fancy a new challenge abroad.’

Gilmour will be selected on merit: Clarke

Scotland head coach Steve Clarke has insisted a call-up for Billy Gilmour will be purely dependent on his game time at Stamford Bridge, Sky Sports reports.

Gilmour’s performances in wins against Liverpool and Everton in March led to calls for his inclusion in Scotland’s senior squad but Clarke is willing to bide his time on the 19-year-old.

‘Listen, Billy is a big prospect and will be a big player for Scotland in the future,’ said the former Chelsea defender.

‘Whether the future is in September, or October or November, or whether it's a year it's going to be decided by Billy's performances [and] how he plays if he gets a chance to play.

‘It's a position where we are very strong - we have a really good group of midfield players - so it's great to have that competition in that position.

‘In an international environment, you don't always get what you want which is two top players for every position. Billy is certainly in the mix.’

Havertz to discuss Leverkusen future

According to Metro, Kai Hazertz has scheduled a meeting with Bayer Leverkusen after the German Cup final on 4 July to discuss a possible summer departure.

Having established himself as one of the Bundesliga’s top youngsters, the 21-year-old attacking midfielder has been linked with a number of clubs including Chelsea and could be on the move this summer.

‘Havertz is open to a move to England and wants to play Champions League football next season which Chelsea would be able to provide should they hold onto fourth place in the Premier League,’ states the report.

‘According to German publication Bild, Havertz is preparing to hold showdown talks with Leverkusen in the wake of their cup final clash against Bayern Munich.

‘The Bundesliga outfit remain hopeful that they can convince Havertz to stay on for at least another season even if they are only able to offer him Europa League football next term.’