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

Loftus-Cheek reportedly agrees new contract

According to the Telegraph, Ruben Loftus-Cheek has agreed a new long-term contract at Stamford Bridge.

The 23-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough season with the Blues in 2018/19, scoring 10 goals in 40 matches before suffering an Achilles injury which caused him to miss the Europa League final victory against Arsenal.

While he is still recovering from the injury, he looks set to be rewarded for his efforts with a new deal to keep him at the club which he joined at the age of eight.

‘Chelsea are yet to confirm the details of Loftus-Cheek’s new contract, but it is expected to run for at least five years,’ states the Telegraph.

‘[His current] contract had two years left to run, but Chelsea were determined to secure Loftus-Cheek to a new agreement even though he is recovering from a serious injury.

According to the report, a couple of other Academy products are also being linked with new deals.

‘Chelsea are also optimistic of securing Callum Hudson-Odoi to a new five-year contract worth around £100,000-a-week as they aim to keep hold of all their young talent,’ it adds.

‘Right-back Reece James could also be rewarded with a new deal after returning from his successful loan at Wigan Athletic.’

Cocu set to replace Lampard at Derby

Sky Sports reports former Dutch midfield star Phillip Cocu is to be appointed as the new manager of Derby County, replacing Chelsea legend Frank Lampard who looks set to take charge of the Blues.

While Derby have allowed Chelsea to discuss the vacant managerial position at Stamford Bridge with Lampard, they have also been making plans for the potential loss of the 41-year-old, who led the Rams to the Championship play-off finals.

They appear to have opted for Cocu, who enjoyed a glittering playing career with PSV Eindhoven, Barcelona and the Dutch national team before leading PSV to three league titles as a manager.

‘Cocu's agent has been in the UK over the past two days and agreed a deal with Derby owner Mel Morris in the past few hours,’ states Sky Sports.

‘It is believed Cocu has verbally agreed to take the job with only a few legal details to be agreed with [Derby owner Mel] Morris convincing the Dutchman he will have the time and the funds available to build a squad capable of gaining Premier League promotion.’

Cahill linked with Leicester

According to the Sun, Leicester City are the latest Premier League team to be interested in signing Gary Cahill following the former Chelsea captain’s departure from Stamford Bridge.

Cahill officially became a free agent on Monday following the expiry of his Chelsea contract and he has been linked with several clubs including Arsenal, Aston Villa, Crystal Palace and West Ham United.

Leicester now also appear to be interested in the 33-year-old as they prepare for the possible departure of England international defender Harry Maguire, who has been the subject of a transfer bid by Manchester United.