Chelsea are reportedly keeping tabs on the contract situation of Bayern Munich defender Niklas Sule, who could end up being available for a free transfer.

Sule is currently negotiating with the German club about a new contract, and there have been problems when working out a deal for the 26-year-old.

It is well known that Chelsea are in the market for a central defender after the club attempted to sign Jules Kounde throughout the summer, but an agreement was never reached for him.

However, Sport Witness report that the recent contract problems for Sule have prompted interest from England, including from European champions Chelsea.

Thomas Tuchel is said to be a fan of him and it is the Chelsea boss himself who is pushing for the club to keep an eye on the situation, which could lead to a free signing being possible due to Sule's deal ending in the summer.

With Antonio Rudiger's current contract with the Blues set to expire this season, there has been plenty of speculation over his future at the club, with Munich being interested in his services, and a possible departure would only increase Chelsea's desire for a defender.