Chelsea Transfer News: Mats Hummels Rumours Rock Manchester United Hopes

Chelsea are "ready to beat" Manchester United to the signing of Borussia Dortmund centre-back Mats Hummels, according to Spanish publication Fichajes (h/t Jamie Sanderson of the Metro).

Sanderson suggests the Blues can be considered "front runners" and that they "believe they would be a more attractive club to play for." This is true at the current time—Jose Mourinho's men are on the verge of capturing the Premier League title while United try to secure a Champions League spot—so Hummels may have a number of potential opportunities placed in front of him during the summer.

Dortmund are "set to listen to offers," according to Sanderson. Hummels would likely slot in alongside John Terry at Stamford Bridge, a pairing that could be exploited by their combined lack of pace. He could be seen as the Englishman's long-term successor and a possible partner for Kurt Zouma, whose Chelsea career has gathered momentum since the turn of the year.

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With Terry recently inking a new contract extension, Hummels' arrival would likely see Gary Cahill pushed out of the side. His form has fluctuated recently, and he appears the most dispensable. Terry is pivotal for now, and Zouma has the quality to be world-class in the future.

United are crying out for a defensive leader, a role Hummels would be welcomed into. While it's foolish to think the German's presence would solve Louis van Gaal's defensive problems, Hummels would finally give the Red Devils a formidable name at the back in the post-Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand era.

Despite recent improvements, both Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are yet to fulfil their potential. They need to string a season of solid performances together before they can be trusted. Both have improved in recent weeks, and with it, United have thrust themselves into third place.

B/R UK's Ryan Bailey and Sam Tighe recently discussed alternative signings for United:

Bundesliga pundit Jan Aage Fjortoft believes Hummels will depart the Westfalenstadion in the summer:

German legend Franz Beckenbauer suggests now is the time for Hummels to make the move, reported by Jeremy Cross of the Daily Star.

"At 26, Hummels is at the best age to make the move to England," Beckenbauer said. "I can understand his thinking well."

Chelsea's squad is stacked with quality, but Mourinho is always looking to improve.

A serious assault on the Champions League is a must next season. Hummels could play a major role in Chelsea challenging for the European title, even if he'd face quality competition for places in the west London squad.