Chelsea 'leading race for David Alaba'

Chelsea are reportedly prepared to make an approach for Bayern Munich defender David Alaba during the January transfer window.

Despite remaining as a key man at the Allianz Arena, Alaba's contract is due to expire in 2021, which has naturally led to widespread interest in his signature.

Liverpool, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Barcelona were all linked with a move for the Austria international during the summer.

However, according to AS, Chelsea could make a formal bid in January, despite the 28-year-old being available on a free transfer later in 2021.

The report suggests that the Blues want to tempt Bayern into a sale for a cut-price fee, rather than giving the Champions League winners more time to agree fresh terms with the player.

Negotiations between Bayern and Alaba have allegedly come to a halt with Bayern unprepared to meet his wage demands.