Transfer Centre

Chelsea handed boost in David Alaba pursuit?

By Oliver Thomas, Senior Reporter | 12 February 2021

Chelsea's hopes of signing Bayern Munich defender David Alaba have potentially been boosted as the German club are close to completing the signing of Dayot Upamecano.

Chelsea's hopes of signing Bayern Munich defender David Alaba have potentially been boosted as it has been confirmed that the German club are close to completing the signing of RB Leipzig's Dayot Upamecano.

Thomas Tuchel's side had hopes of their own of bolstering their defence by signing the 22-year-old Frenchman, however it has been announced that Bayern have won the race.

When asked by Bild as to whether he could confirm that a deal has been agreed, sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic replied: "I can, and we are very happy about that at FC Bayern".

Although they are to miss out on Upamecano, football.london reports that this could benefit Chelsea's chances of signing Alaba next summer.

The Austria international is set to become a free agent in June when his contract with the Bundesliga champions expires, with the Blues one of the clubs leading the race for his signature.

Alaba has made over 400 appearances for Bayern Munich since joining the club in 2009 and has won nine Bundesliga titles as well as two Champions League triumphs.