CHELSEA are facing an uphill battle to sign Marcus Thuram after Barcelona sent scouts to watch him, according to reports.
Thuram, 25, is out of contract in the summer and consequently represents a cut-price option in a heavily inflated January market.
Chelsea are one of a number of sides who have been linked with a move for the Frenchman, who can play as a winger or a striker.
However, Barcelona are understood to be taking the most keen look at him.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the club's present financial situation is restricting them from being able to freely navigate the market.
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Therefore, they have been seeking cheaper alternatives - a profile Thuram fits due to the nature of his contract.
The report indicates the Spanish giants have sent scouts to watch the Borussia Monchengladbach star, with "favourable" reports being returned.
Thuram is typically deployed through the centre in Germany, but during the World Cup he made his impact off the bench coming from the wing, showcasing his versatility.
With him thought to be available for just under £10million as well, the likes of Manchester United, Arsenal, Newcastle, Tottenham and Liverpool have all retained an interest.
But each of these clubs seem to have transfer target priorities which, for now at least, lie elsewhere.
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Chelsea owner Todd Boehly is said to have now stepped down from his role as interim sporting director, but it has not stopped the club pressing forward with deals.
The Blues have verbally agreed to cough up the £10million loan fee for Atletico Madrid's Joao Felix, which they hope will alleviate some of their issues for the remainder of the season.
