Chelsea transfer round-up as Rice plan emerges and Blues suffer Alaba blow

With Chelsea struggling in the Premier League, Frank Lampard may consider diving into the transfer market this month to bolster his squad.

The Blues boss hinted last week that there is likely to be more movement out of the club than into it.

But, following their Premier League defeat by Manchester City on Sunday, the pressure is now on Lampard to overcome their current slump which has seen them fall away from the title race.

And with the transfer window now open, there are plenty of rumours around regarding players joining and leaving this club.

Here are the latest Chelsea transfer rumours….

Blues outline long-term plan for Rice

Chelsea remain desperate to land Declan Rice – and have reportedly already outlined their long-term plan for the England star.

The West Ham ace is top of Lampard's wish list, who tried to sign him in the summer window.

Ultimately, a transfer failed as the Blues could not move on the likes of Antonio Rudiger, Marcos Alonso and Jorginho to raise funds, while the Hammers also told Chelsea that Rice was not for sale.

But their resolve is set to be tested further in January and, according to The Sun, Chelsea will renew their interest with another bid.

The publication also claims that Lampard sees him as the ideal long-term centre-back partner for Kurt Zouma, despite Rice starring in midfield for West Ham and England.

Alaba blow as Real Madrid 'close in' on star

Real Madrid are in pole position to sign David Alaba, handing a blow to Chelsea who are among the Premier League giants interested in landing the Austrian.

Alaba, 28, is out of contract with Bayern Munich at the end of the season and has failed to agree to new terms with the Bundesliga champions.

Negotiations between the defender's representatives and Bayern chiefs became increasingly hostile before they broke down altogether over his eye-watering wage demands.

Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea were linked with moves for Alaba, who is free to sign a pre-contract with clubs outside of Germany during the newly-opened January transfer window.

But Marca claims Real Madrid are leading the race for the two-time Champions League winner.

Brown sent for another loan spell

Izzy Brown's disappointing loan spell at Sheffield Wednesday could be brought to an end this month, with Chelsea set to send him out for another temporary move.

The versatile forward has made 14 league appearances for the Owls this season but struggled for starts under Garry Monk and Tony Pulis.

And according to The Sun , the Blues are intent on Brown enjoying more regular game time in the second tier of English football.

The publication claims that Blackburn and Reading are keeping tabs on his situation, and could swoop this month.

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