Chelsea have reportedly “explored” the possibility of signing Leicester City midfielder Youri Tielemans.

The Belgium international has been heavily linked with a move away from the King Power Stadium over the past year.

However, the Foxes failed to receive sufficient interest in one of their assets last January and, in particular, during the summer.

As it stands, Tielemans is now able to hold discussions with foreign clubs from January 1, with his contract being due to expire at the end of the season.

According to CBS Sports journalist Ben Jacobs, Chelsea are considering making a move for the Belgian at the turn of the year.

Although the Blues are currently well stocked for options in that area of the pitch, the likes of Jorginho and N’Golo Kante are both out of contract in the summer.

The West London outfit are likely to be active in the mid-season transfer window in a bid to turn around their fortunes in the top flight.

After a poor World Cup performance with Belgium, the 25-year-old returns to Premier League action when Leicester City host Newcastle United on Boxing day.