Chelsea close to extending defender's contract

Chelsea are reportedly close to finalising a new long-term contract for defender Andreas Christensen.

The Dane has been a key player under manager Thomas Partey, and he has been picked ahead of Thiago Silva this term.

He has entered the final 10 months on his existing contract, but Goal.com claimed that the Blues are confident of renewing his deal.

The 25-year-old has been offered a four-year contract with a pay rise. He is expected to sign the deal after receiving regular game time.

The west London giants are also negotiating contract extensions for Cesar Azpilicueta and Antonio Rudiger whose deals expire next summer.

Azpilicueta is likely to prolong his stay, but there are doubts whether Rudiger will do the same amid PSG and Real Madrid interest.

The Blues are expected to make a fresh move for Jules Kounde in January. Rudiger may not sign a new deal unless he is guaranteed a starting spot.

He has been an almost ever-present figure in the back three, but the German is still unsure regarding his position at the European champions.