Bayern Munich ready to battle Barcelona for Chelsea defender

Barcelona’s pursuit of Chelsea defender David Luiz took an interesting turn this week amid reports that Champions League rivals Bayern Munich have entered the race to sign the player.

The Catalans have long been linked with a move for the 27-year-old, who is thought to favour a move away from Stamford Bridge this summer, having fallen down the Pensioners’ pecking order under manager Jose Mourinho.

It was widely thought that the Brazilian would complete a move to the Nou Camp during the post-season break, but those plans may have now been thrown into doubt by news of the Bavarians’ interest.

Die Roten manager Pep Guardiola is keen to bolster Bayern’s defensive options in the wake of their humiliation at the hands of Real Madrid in the semi-finals of this season’s Champions League.

And Luiz’s confidence on the ball is thought to be a key factor behind Guardiola’s preference, with the Brazilian capable of moving forward with possession in much the same way Javier Mascherano did as a defender with the Catalans under the Spaniard.

Barcelona meanwhile are similarly keen to improve their backline following a season in which defensive lapses have cost them dearly both in Europe and domestically.

Lionel Messi and co head into the weekend with their La Liga hopes very much in their own hands though – a win over Atletico Madrid will mean they finish as champions – but squad improvements are still required.

A fee somewhere in the region of £25m is likely to be enough to prise the Selecao star away from Chelsea, with Mourinho eager to step-up his search for a new striker.

The Blues have been linked with a move for Atleti man Diego Costa over the summer, as they go in search of a first Premier League crown in three years.

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