Chelsea Transfer News: Latest on Marco Reus, Raphael Varane and Top Rumours

For once, Lionel Messi isn't the dominant name in Chelsea's latest transfer rumours. That distinction now belongs to Borussia Dortmund star Marco Reus.

Apparently, the Premier League leaders are ready to bid for the stylish German wide forward and ruin the transfer plans of Real Madrid. Speaking of Mourinho's former club, he could be denied the chance to finally sign highly-touted French centre-back Raphael Varane, by the actions of an old foe.

First, the Portuguese coach will apparently focus on Reus. That's according to Express writer Charles Perrin, who states Chelsea will meet Reus' £20 million release clause ahead of Manchester United and Arsenal.

Perrin has claimed Mourinho's exasperation with Reus' fellow German international Andre Schurrle is prompting the quick action. Perrin cited Schurrle being subbed four times before half-time in matches this season as obvious proof of the manager's mistrust in him.

Reus, along with Fiorentina's Colombian winger Juan Cuadrado, is mentioned as Mourinho's desired replacements. However, Reus is no mere swap for Schurrle.

The outrageously talented 25-year-old is as versatile as Schurrle, but more creative. At his best, Reus is a prolific source of both goals and supply, something highlighted by B/R analyst Sam Tighe.

That explains Real Madrid's interest in the player. It's interest that could have already blown Chelsea out of the water.

Recent reports suggested Los Blancos have already sealed a deal to sign Reus this summer, per Spanish publication Marca (h/t Daily Star reporter Rhys Turrell). However, just for contrast, Spanish television show Punto Pelota claimed it's actually Real's hated neighbour Atletico who have reached an agreement (h/t 101 Great Goals).

If there's even a chance of landing Reus, Chelsea should take it. His ability to thrive on either wing or through the middle, would add greater fluidity to Mourinho's increasingly expansive team.

B/R's Ryan Bailey and Garry Hayes discussed a possible Reus transfer, with the latter endorsing the idea of a deal:

However, the more pressing need might not be yet another wide forward, even one as talented as Reus. Chelsea may be wiser to pursue a marquee successor for 33-year-old centre-back John Terry.

Los Merengues' young star Raphael Varane would be the perfect choice. But Mourinho may miss out on the player he gave a chance to in Madrid.

In what would surely irk the Chelsea gaffer, he may miss out to Pep Guardiola, his fiercest managerial rival. The ex-Barcelona, now current Bayern Munich chief has made Varane his top target, per Marca (h/t Express reporter Charles Perrin).

Andres Kudacki/Associated Press

Apparently Guardiola has made a plea to agent Jorge Mendes to help seal a £20 million deal to beat Chelsea and United to the young defender. That Varane is courting such high-profile interest shouldn't surprise anyone.

The 21-year-old is pacy, powerful and reads the game in a manner that belies his inexperience. Greater experience is something he is currently struggling to get in Madrid.

Michel Euler/Associated Press

Los Blancos boss Carlo Ancelotti reportedly still rates rugged veteran duo Sergio Ramos and Pepe a "long way above" Varane, per Marca reporters Jose Luis Calderon and Jose Felix Diaz.

It's that kind of talk that has been encouraging Chelsea to weigh up a summer bid, per ESPN FC reporter Miguel Delaney. He's cited the respect between Mourinho and Varane:

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The 21-year-old is known to have greatly enjoyed working under Mourinho at Real between 2011 and 2013 and still holds the Portuguese in the highest esteem, despite the problems the Chelsea manager had with some of the playing squad at the Bernabeu. At the same time, Mourinho views Varane as potentially the best centre-half in the world.

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That could be a key factor in any potential deal. Chelsea certainly know they'll have to replace skipper Terry soon.

Scott Heppell/Associated Press

Young Frenchman Kurt Zouma hasn't made a major impression and there aren't any other convincing options. Securing a budding young star the calibre of Varane to take over for a talisman like Terry would be a major coup.

Centre-back is probably the only position in the current Chelsea squad that needs strengthening. But Mourinho can afford to wait, just like he can risk not entering a bidding war for Reus.

His team is still well-balanced at the back and boasts quality depth in forward areas. But as summer signings go, either one of Reus or Varane would certainly be welcome.