Manchester United's interest in Cesc Fabregas could force Chelsea's hand in offering a new deal to the Spaniard.
The Times report the Blues may have to break their policy of offering a single year extension to players over 30 for Fabregas to keep him at Stamford Bridge.
Fabregas has 18 months left on his deal and wants to extend, but United's interest may be enticing.
The 30-year-old has fought for a spot in Antonio Conte's plans this season amid competition from other midfielders with varying styles.
Jose Mourinho targets Champions League last 16 with two games to spare so Man United can ramp up City chase
Jose Mourinho has challenged his players to reach the Champions League last 16 on Tuesday night – then focus on reeling in Manchester City in the title race.
Manchester United will qualify for the knockout stages with two games to spare, if they beat Benfica at Old Trafford and CSKA Moscow fail to win away at Basel.
Mourinho wants qualification wrapped up as quickly as possible so he can concentrate on stopping the Premier League title race becoming a victory procession for free-scoring City.
Pep Guardiola’s side are already five points clear at the top, with the prospect of that lead increasing with United travelling to Mourinho’s former club Chelsea on Sunday.
“Our aim is to qualify,” said Mourinho. “Ten points would be OK to qualify, but our main aim is to finish first in the group.
Gary Neville makes incredible Jose Mourinho comparison to boxer Floyd Mayweather as they both 'wear you down'
Former Manchester United idol Gary Neville has drawn a detailed comparison between Jose Mourinho and boxing great Floyd Mayweather.
Mourinho was heckled by United fans during his side's 1-0 victory over Tottenham on Saturday before he hit back by shushing them after the final whistle.
Red Devils supporters have been left frustrated after the early season free scoring has been turned into defensive displays - with the side only five goals in their last five games.
But Neville believes tactical genius Mourinho is outsmarting his Premier League rivals in a similar manner to Mayweather.
Undefeated 15 time world champion Mayweather was branded boring by critics throughout his career for making patience and skill, at the expense of entertainment, the calling card of his career.
Mayweather, whose 50th and final - so he says - opponent was Conor McGregor used his cunning and guile to sit back, avoid being hit and wear his rivals down over 12 rounds to be arguably the best of all time.