Chelsea are eyeing up a move for Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic, according to Sport.
The Croatia international midfielder is once again seeing his future in Catalunya called into questions.
The Blues are planning to swoop for the 30-year-old in the summer, as Maurizio Sarri looks for more guile in his midfield.
Rakitic recently spoke about speculation regarding his future at the Camp Nou after the signing of De Jong touted as their long-term answer in midfield.
The Croatian admitted he is happy at the club and may not be looking to move, which could be sending signals to Chelsea that they will have to do a lot more.
“If I am here [at Barcelona], it’s to play. If anything has to change, we will speak. I have a lot of confidence. I know what I can give. I know who I am,” Rakitic said.
“I want to be here and, if I can renew, to be here for even more years. I am really happy here, everyone knows it, above all the president.
I have nothing else to say. “I am 30 and I am in the best moment of my career. I want to enjoy football and enjoy Barça.”
Chelsea could also be facing a transfer ban from FIFA disciplinary committee amid their dealings with over 100 youth players from overseas.