Barcelona keen on signing Chelsea defender

Spanish giants Barcelona are reportedly considering an approach to sign Chelsea's David Luiz when the transfer window reopens in the New Year.

The Catalan giants are currently in a defensive crisis with both Thomas Vermaelen and Samuel Umtiti on the sidelines and this has increased the need for a new recruit at the heart of the backline.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the Blaugrana are keeping tabs on a number of central defenders and Luiz is among the prime candidates on their radar for January.

Luiz has been ever-present for the Blues in the top-flight this campaign but his long-term future with the club remains a concern with his contract expiring in eight months' time.

The west London side are said to have already planned contract discussions with the Brazilian but it remains to be seen whether he would prefer the Blues' offer of a one-year extension.

Chelsea have remained unbeaten since the start of the Premier League season and they are currently second in the standings after a 3-1 win over Crystal Palace at home.