Chelsea transfer news: Branislav Ivanovic 'yet to be offered' new deal as contract winds down

Serbian defender has endured a terrible start to the season

(Getty)

Branislav Ivanovic is a free agent next summer and is yet to be offered a new deal by Chelsea, according to reports.

The Serbian defender has come in for strong criticism for his poor start to the season, where he was roasted by Swansea winger Jefferson Montero on the opening day and at fault for two goals in the disastrous defeat to Manchester City.

The 31-year-old, who took the captain's armband from John Terry in the second half at the Etihad, is one of Jose Mourinho's most trusted players and played every minute of every match in the Premier League last season.

However, the Daily Mail report that Chelsea are yet to sit down with Ivanovic with his deal running out at the end of the season. Several 'top clubs' in England and in Europe are said to be watching the situation.

After a slow start to life at Stamford Bridge, Ivanovic has developed to become one of the club's most reliable players and a firm fans' favourite.

The best right-back in the Premier League last season, Ivanovic has twice been named in the Team of the Year and helped Chelsea win two titles, three FA Cups, a League Cup, the Champions League and the Europa League.

He has played more than 300 matches for Chelsea.

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