Chelsea Transfer News: Raphael Varane and Andre Gomes Double Blow, Koke Rumours

Real Madrid's Raphael Varane and Valencia's Andre Gomes have both stated that they are "happy" at their current clubs, with the latter insisting that no contact has been made by Chelsea.

Speculation has linked Varane with a move to Stamford Bridge for some time, per Sky Sports. Such a move would set up a reunion with Jose Mourinho, the man who signed him for Madrid, and potentially allow the French defender a greater amount of first-team football.

The 21-year-old has had to be patient for opportunities to impress in the Spanish capital. Speaking after Madrid's win over Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday, Varane said that he is only thinking about the Bernabeu club, per Javier Garcia of Madrid's official website: "I'm focused on our season and I'm going to give everything to help the team. I'm happy at Real Madrid."

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Mourinho previously told Yahoo (h/t Sky Sports) that Varane is "the best young central defender in the world." Chelsea fans may salivate at the thought of him partnering compatriot Kurt Zouma in the club's future back line, a duo that would possess pace, power, height and an excellent reading of the game.

Varane wasn't the only player to affirm his commitment to his club amid rumours of a move. Gomes suggests his future remains with Valencia and that rumours of Chelsea's interest are just that, reported by Anthony Chapman of the Express:

"

I'm not worried about what the future holds. I am convinced that I will stay in Valencia because I am very happy here. I just think about spending the next season in Spain. Chelsea? I do not know anything and also my agent is not aware of any opportunity.

"

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The 21-year-old midfielder has impressed this season, playing in a number of roles for Nuno's side. His versatility and confidence has shone through, with Gomes posting mature performances in central, attacking and defensive midfield, depending on the situation. He has scored four goals and provided one assist, per WhoScored.com. Additionally, he is a fine tackler and loves possession at his feet.

Mourinho may have to look elsewhere for midfield reinforcements, though. Matt Law of The Telegraph suggests that, while Paul Pogba and Koke are two of Mourinho's top targets, Chelsea are "considering" rivalling Arsenal for the signature of Southampton's Morgan Schneiderlin.

Koke has the potential to play a Cesc Fabregas-style role for the club if he were to arrive, providing Chelsea with a second creative Spaniard to play through the middle. Yet Mourinho could opt for additional muscle instead.

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Schneiderlin is physical and deserves to be ranked alongside Nemanja Matic as the best defensive midfielder in the Premier League. He is a more natural ball-player than the Serb and would improve an already dominant Chelsea midfield.

The Blues are currently seven points clear at the top the Premier League, but Mourinho needs recruits to push for next season's Champions League. B/R UK's Garry Hayes doesn't believe many alterations are needed:

Even if Varane is committed to Real Madrid, his quality and association with Mourinho will continue to see him linked with Chelsea. Mourinho's centre-back options could use a reshuffle—John Terry is getting old and Gary Cahill has struggled for consistency this season—but any major acquisition is likely to be met with an outgoing deal.

It's unclear as to what type of reinforcements Mourinho will target in the summer, but judging on last year's activity and current rumours, La Liga's best will have to watch out.