Chelsea Transfer News: Benedikt Howedes' Comments Spark Blues Rumours

Schalke defender Benedikt Howedes has ignited rumours he could be on his way to Chelsea by stating that he wishes to play in the Premier League.

The German centre-back—who was part of the nation's World Cup-winning team last summer—suggested that he is only looking to move in one direction if his Gelsenkirchen career comes to an end.

"I owe Schalke a lot. I have had a great experience during my time here," said Howedes, per Bild (h/t Jamie Sanderson of Metro). "However, if I were to imagine moving abroad to experience a life in a foreign country, England would be my destination."

Antonio Calanni/Associated Press

Sanderson believes Chelsea "lead the race" for Howedes' signature. He also suggests scouts from the Premier League leaders "are known to be watching" the star, who is also touted for a move to Manchester United or Arsenal. 

Howedes is a quality player, someone who has proved his versatility at the top level. While he is dominant at centre-back and capable of slotting into a left-back role, one has to consider whether Jose Mourinho needs a player of his ilk.

The 26-year-old is unlikely to want to sit on the bench. John Terry has been immovable during Mourinho's two tenures in charge at Stamford Bridge and isn't being ousted any time soon, such is the importance of his leadership skills.

Kirsty Wigglesworth/Associated Press

Gary Cahill is still a key player for the Blues, despite a handful of shaky performances this season, and he is currently embroiled in a battle for starting time with Kurt Zouma.

The French starlet performed admirably during games against Liverpool and Manchester City in recent times, with Mourinho hailing him as one of the two "best" young defenders in the world alongside Real Madrid's Raphael Varane, reported by Ben Jefferson of the Express. Howedes' arrival could impact the 20-year-old's development.

Even if he arrived with a view to filling in as a utility man, Howedes would likely struggle to remain in the first team. Mourinho has Cesar Azpilicueta and Filipe Luis to deploy at left-back, while the former can also challenge Branislav Ivanovic for the role on the right side.

Sanderson says that Howedes is "rated" at £17 million, money which would perhaps be better spent elsewhere for Chelsea, who currently have one of the English top flight's two best defences. The player could become key at United or Arsenal, where his aerial prowess and physical dominance is needed. Howedes' qualities are highlighted below:

It wouldn't be beyond Mourinho to sign such a player, though. He loves reliable, versatile professionals who can apply themselves to Chelsea's cause. The squad's tremendous strength in depth ensures the west London side are set remain in the trophy hunt until the end of the season, and the delivery of a Premier League crown to Stamford Bridge is becoming more likely with each passing week.

Howedes is likely to be the subject of much speculation over the coming months, but it's questionable whether Chelsea's reported interest will develop into a concrete bid, particularly when you consider the options already at the club.