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

Blues eyeing Pjanic

Chelsea are reportedly interested in Barcelona midfielder Miralem Pjanic.

According to Sport, the Bosnian does not have the confidence of Dutch boss Ronald Koeman after arriving in the summer and could move on in the next transfer window.

After joining in a swap deal from Juventus, with Arthur Melo going the other way, the 31-year-old has only made six league starts since his arrival in Catalonia.

The report states that the Blues have made an enquiry about the midfielder and Pjanic would not oppose leaving to get more regular game time.

Chelsea were also reportedly interested in the former Juventus man last season before his move to Barcelona.

It’s claimed that the situation will be analysed at the end of the season as the Blues will also have to fight off interest from Inter Milan.

Shearer praises James

Alan Shearer has praised Reece James for his performance in our 2-1 win against Manchester City on the weekend.

Speaking on Match of the Day, the former Newcastle striker believes Chelsea’s success started to come when the wing-back created space to attack the wing.

‘The reason why Chelsea were better is that they got Alonso and James higher up the pitch,’ he said. ‘They were more involved.

‘James was magnificent in the second half, he gave Benjamin Mendy a horrid time. His pace and quality got Chelsea up the pitch.’

Thomas Tuchel’s men moved to third place in the Premier League and took full advantage in the fight for a Champions League spot as Leicester City, West Ham and Tottenham lost games.

‘They couldn’t handle him,’ Shearer continued. ‘It was three or four occasions that he did that in the second half. He pulled everyone up with him.

‘Chelsea were prepared to gamble and that was the big difference, it’s a big win for them.’

Berbatov hails ‘unbelievable’ Kante

Former Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov believes N’Golo Kante should receive awards for all the hard work he does all over the pitch.

Speaking in a report that was repeated in the Metro, the Bulgarian admitted his love for the French midfielder.

‘I love Kante,’ he said. ‘He was everywhere against Real Madrid. I don’t know how to describe this player. He is so good.

‘They should have an award in football for players like this. He is someone who works hard and covers everyone on the pitch.’

The Frenchman is one game away from a Champions League medal after putting in two Man of the Match performances against Real Madrid. Adding this trophy to his career would be impressive after winning the Premier League twice and the World Cup.

‘He doesn’t want people to say thank you,’ Berbatov added. ‘He just does it. He will put his body on the line for you.

‘That guy is unbelievable. He deserves credit because the way he plays is great.’