Chelsea are looking to strengthen in defence in the summer transfer window, with David Alaba a potential target. (GETTY Images)
According to The Telegraph (h/t Daily Star), Chelsea have turned their attention to other defensive targets after being taken aback by the eye-watering wage demands of David Alaba.
The 28-year-old will be available on a free transfer at the end of the season after talks over a new contract between him and Bayern Munich broke down. With Chelsea expected to be in the market for a new centre-back next summer, Alaba has emerged as a prime target for Thomas Tuchel’s side.
The Austrian stalwart has evolved into one of the best defenders across the continent over the course of his illustrious spell at the Allianz Arena. Alaba has been a key component of Bayern’s rearguard over the years, winning 9 Bundesliga titles to go along with two Champions League crowns.
Hence, it’s hardly a surprise to see that his imminent availability on a free transfer has put several elite clubs, including Chelsea, on red alert. La Liga giants Real Madrid are also believed to be hot on trail of the versatile defender.
However, Alaba’s sky-high wage demands have already started to put clubs off the table, with the Austrian international looking for a £20million-a-year package. That would amount to around £400,000-a-week, a lot more than what Chelsea’s current highest-earner N’Golo Kante pockets.
Hence, it’s clear that Alaba would need to slash his demands if he is to complete a move to Stamford Bridge. Chelsea have had success with the acquisition of Thiago Silva on a free transfer this past summer but Alaba could be way too costly for the Blues to afford.
Chelsea have also been linked with other Bundesliga stars Ibrahima Konate and Niklas Sule in recent weeks as Thomas Tuchel weighs up defensive reinforcements with an eye on the future.
After stealing all three points at the death away at Bournemouth last week, Chelsea brace themselves for another tough away…
Chelsea face West Ham away from home in the Premier League Chelsea and West Ham go head-to-head on matchday five…
Reece James and his injury problems are becoming a matter of grave concern with every passing week for Chelsea. The…
The wait to see the Blues back in action after the first International break came to an end when Enzo…
Chelsea narrowly beat Bournemouth in their recent Premier League game, with Christopher Nkunku providing them a late respite. As they…
Christopher Nkunku was Chelsea's saviour last weekend in what was a nail-biting affair against Bournemouth in the Premier League. The…
