CHELSEA could put together an even more star-studded XI next season if Lionel Messi and David Alaba arrive.
Reports suggest the Blues are in the mix for both stars, who are each out of contract next summer.
How Frank Lampard could set up his team with David Alaba and Lionel Messi
Frank Lampard oversaw a massive spending spree in the last transfer window, with over £200million splashed on the likes of Timo Werner, Kai Havertz and Ben Chilwell.
Chelsea may choose to focus their efforts on quality over quantity at the end of the campaign.
And few would bring that better than Barcelona and Argentina talisman Messi, 33.
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The LaLiga giants will need to put a seductive economic package on the table to secure the forward, while also convincing him that they can win another bundle of trophies.
Should Messi decide to move on, Manchester City are tipped to secure his services but Spanish football expect Guillem Balague has claimed Chelsea are in the mix.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Balague said: “Chelsea are definitely in the equation if Messi becomes available. That is true.
“Chelsea will insist they want to hear everything that is going on.
“If they have the money they will want to be involved too. Remember, there is no transfer fee.”
Lampard has confirmed that Chelsea have an option to extend Thiago Silva’s one-year deal into the 2021-22 campaign.
A 3-4-3 setup that could allow Chelsea even more attacking options
The Brazilian veteran would complete a stunningly experienced backline if he can line up alongside Alaba.
Bayern Munich have held back from making a fresh contract offer to the Austrian, 28.
Talks reportedly broke down amid interest from Liverpool, Manchester City and Real Madrid.
German newspaper Bild have named Chelsea as well-placed to open talks over a free transfer in January.
Pep Guardiola admits Lionel Messi’s future is up in the air as Man City plan transfer bid for unsettled Barcelona star
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
