Chelsea 'in talks for in-demand centre-back'

Chelsea have reportedly made contact with the representatives of teenage centre-back Armel Bella-Kotchap to discuss a potential deal ahead of this summer's transfer window.

The 18-year-old only signed his first professional contract with VfL Bochum last year but has already developed into a first-team player, making 10 appearances in all competitions this season.

Eight of Bella-Kotchap's outings this term have come in the second tier of German football, while he has also featured twice in the DFB-Pokal.

According to The Sun, Chelsea have made contact with the player's representatives to discuss a potential £6.5m move at the end of the 2019-20 campaign.

The Blues, though, will allegedly face intense competition for the defender as Manchester United, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, Barcelona and Real Madrid are all thought to be admirers.

Bella-Kotchap, who stands at 6ft 3in, was born in France but has made five appearances for Germany's Under-18 side.