Football rumours from the media

What the papers say

Chelsea could already have a back-up plan in mind if they are unsuccessful in their attempts to secure Ben Chilwell from Leicester. According to the Daily Express, the club are willing to turn their attention to Paris St Germain and France left-back Layvin Kurzawa if Chilwell’s hefty asking price proves too big an obstacle.

The Mail also reports Everton have entered the race for Real Valladolid defender Mohammed Salisu. The 21-year-old Ghanaian has a £10.8m release clause in his contract and is believed to have already attracted attention from Manchester United and Southampton.

Staying with the Toffees, the Liverpool Echo says the club is yet to sign off on a deal with Nice for midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin. Although the negotiations are ongoing, both clubs are believed to be confident of coming to an agreement on the 30-year-old’s signature this week.

Social media round-up

Players to watch

Lionel Messi: Marca reports Barcelona have opened negotiations with the 32-year-old on a new two-year deal.

Kalidou Koulibaly: Liverpool have thrown their hat in the ring with a £54m bid for the Napoli defender, reports Corriere dello Sport.