Fulham 'interested in Chelsea captain Gary Cahill'

Fulham are reportedly interested in signing Gary Cahill from West London neighbours Chelsea during the January transfer window.

New Fulham boss Claudio Ranieri is looking for reinforcements next month as he aims to drag the club away from danger, with the promoted Cottagers currently sitting bottom of the Premier League table.

Chelsea are willing to let Cahill leave the club in January, with the 32-year-old having fallen down the pecking order under manager Maurizio Sarri.

Cahill's current Chelsea contract expires at the end of the season, and Sky Sports News reports that Fulham want to take him to Craven Cottage in January on either a permanent or loan deal.

Ranieri is understood to have earmarked the former England international's experience as being a potentially crucial element in his side's battle against the drop.

However, Fulham could face competition for his signature with both West Ham United and Southampton having also been credited with an interest in Cahill.

Fulham have the worst defensive record in the Premier League this season and are in the market for a new centre-back despite signing three during the summer.

Cahill has been with Chelsea since 2012 and has won every trophy available at the club, but he has only made one Premier League appearance so far.