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

Chelsea eye Jonathan David swoop

The Blues are one of a number of clubs looking to sign Lille’s star playmaker Jonathan David, according to reports in Canada.

Chelsea will face Lille in the Champions League Round of 16, with the first leg at Stamford Bridge in just under a month’s time.

Reports by outlet TSN suggest Chelsea could take one of their most dangerous players off them next summer.

‘The list of top European clubs looking to secure Jonathan David’s signature continues to grow, with the biggest clubs in England and Spain lining up to persuade the 21-year-old Canadian striker,’ the story states.

‘Amid reported interest from Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Real Madrid, TSN has learned Barcelona, Chelsea, and Tottenham have all made inquiries into the Ottawa native’s immediate future.

‘David is currently in the second year of a five-year deal with Lille. TSN reported last week that David is not looking to move away from the defending French champions during this January transfer window,' the report adds.

‘But it’s increasingly likely David will make a big-money move this coming summer.

‘TSN has also learned David hasn’t narrowed his list of preferred destinations and is open to every possibility.’

Constant praise for Thiago

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp has hailed the ‘incredible’ Thiago Silva after he once again put on a fantastic show for Chelsea fans at Stamford Bridge.

The Brazilian continues to belie his age in SW6 and his goal on Sunday, which doubled our advantage, made it two in two Premier League games this season against Spurs.

Quoted by the Metro, Redknapp labelled Thiago as a ‘Rolls Royce’ of a footballer.

‘We talk about great players and great signings, what a great signing he’s been,’ Redknapp said of the Brazilian after Chelsea’s 2-0 win.

‘There were a few people doubting him because of his age, but he has been incredible. He’s a Rolls-Royce of a player. And what a great influence he must be to the other players in that dressing room.’

Ranieiri's fourth Premier League reign is over

Ex-Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri has left Premier League side Watford.

The Hornets have lost seven of their last eight Premier League matches and have decided to make a change in the dugout in a bid to keep them in the top flight for next season.

They released a club statement last night confirming the Italian's departure.

‘Watford Football Club confirms the departure of Head Coach Claudio Ranieri,’ the statement starts.

‘The Hornets' Board recognises Claudio as a man of great integrity and honour, who will always be respected here at Vicarage Road for his efforts in leading the team with dignity.

‘However the Board feels that, with nearly half of the Premier League campaign remaining, a change in the Head Coach position now will give a new appointment sufficient time to work with a talented squad to achieve the immediate goal of retaining Premier League status.

‘No further club comment will be made until this new appointment is confirmed in due course.’