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

Alaba’s agent to start talks in January

David Alaba’s agent Pini Zahavi is reportedly looking to secure a transfer for the Austrian captain to Chelsea, with talks to start in January.

According to BILD, Bayern Munich are unwilling to meet the demands of the 28-year-old which might allow Alaba to leave on a free transfer next year.

Reports suggest that Juventus and Real Madrid are also looking at the option of signing Alaba as his versatility is a highly important trait in the game.

The defender’s resume speaks for itself. Nine Bundesliga titles, six German Cup wins and two Champion League victories. He will add more of the winning mentality Frank Lampard is looking to instil into his young players.

Alaba can fill in at left-back and centre-back which will offer the Chelsea management plenty of fluidity should this deal come to fruition.

Keane applauds Mount

Roy Keane has kept a close eye on the development of Mason Mount and he revealed on Sky Sports how much of a fan he is of the Cobham graduate.

Mount’s performances for club and country this season have shown why he has been a key player in the middle of the park and Keane admitted to loving everything about him.

‘This boy (Mount) I like him, he’s got so much going for him. He always steps to the next level.

‘He scores goals, assists, sees a pass, I like everything about him,’ said Keane on Sky Sports, which was also reported in the Daily Mail.

The 21-year-old has been subjected to criticism online, but the former Manchester United captain admitted to not being active on social media.

‘Apparently, there are critics on social media, I don’t follow social media thank god, but I like the look of this kid.’

The midfielder has one goal and three assists for Chelsea in all competitions so far this season and continues to build from performance to performance.

Ramires considering retirement

According to goal.com, former Chelsea midfielder Ramires is considering retirement after a mutual agreement to terminate his contract at Palmeiras.

The 33-year-old took to Instagram to explain the reasons for his departure from the Brazilian club.

‘As most of you may already know, the Palmeiras management and I decided that it would be good for both parties to end my bond with the club, which happened in the friendliest way and calm way possible,’ he wrote.

‘My motivations are personal and related to situations that I prefer not to reveal at the moment. I’m just here to thank Palmeiras, all the management, for the professional and correct manner that they treated me, and to my team-mates, for friendship, affection and respect.’

Ramires was contracted at Palmeiras until 2023 so his departure puts question marks on whether he is going to hang up his boots. According to goal, Ramires has also had offers from Japan.

Ramires spent six years at the Blues. At Stamford Bridge, he won the Premier League, Europa League, FA Cup and a Champions League.