Chelsea have submitted an offer to sign Barcelona striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, according to reports.
The Blues have offered £15million in a deal that would also see left-back Marcos Alonso make his way to the Camp Nou.
It is understood that Barca are yet to give the green light on the deal, as they weigh up their options regarding Aubameyang.
The Gabon international joined the Spanish giants from Arsenal in January 2022, but has fallen down the pecking order following the summer arrival of talisman Robert Lewandowski.
Barcelona manager Xavi has expressed his desire to keep Aubameyang in Catalonia, although it is thought that the sale may relieve some of the club’s well-documented financial straits.
Speaking at a press conference last Friday, Xavi said: ‘I am counting on him. I’m really delighted with him, he can help us.
‘Those I am not counting on already know, they know won’t play. Between now and 31 August, different things can happen, but I like Auba, he can help us.’
The striker netted 11 goals in just 17 LaLiga outings last term, but a reunion with former Borussia Dortmund manager Thomas Tuchel in west London is now on the cards, per The Athletic.
The Blues lack an out-and-out striker after Romelu Lukaku’s loan return to Inter Milan earlier in the summer.
The former Arsenal captain is reportedly open to a return to the Premier League, with the west London outfit his preferred destination should he depart Barcelona.
Chelsea have already signed established stars Raheem Sterling, Marc Cucurella and Kalidou Koulibaly in their new owners’ maiden summer, while they are also touted with moves for Wesley Fofana and Anthony Gordon.
Alonso has been linked with a move to Barca throughout the summer, and it is thought that his inclusion in the deal is an attempt to satisfy the Spanish giants.
