Chelsea to sign German defender on a free transfer?

Chelsea could sign Bayern Munich defender Niklas Sule on a free transfer next summer.

The German was linked with the Blues during the summer transfer window, but Bayern had no plans of selling him.

Having seen Jerome Boateng and David Alaba leave, they were determined to keep Sule. There is still uncertainty over his future.

He has yet to sign a new contract beyond next summer, and could sign a pre-contract with an overseas club in January.

Blues boss Thomas Tuchel is a huge admirer of the centre-back. He previously attempted to sign him for Borussia Dortmund.

He is eager to work with his compatriot in the future. The Blues are likely to make an approach for his services at the turn of the year.

The Blues are currently loaded with central defensive options, but both Thiago Silva and Antonio Rudiger could leave next summer.

Silva's contract expires at the end of the season. It is uncertain whether the club have plans of keeping him for another campaign at 37.

Meanwhile, Rudiger has declined to extend his stay amid wage differences.

Cesar Azpilicueta and Andreas Christensen have also entered the final year of their contracts, but are widely expected to renew.