Barelona will step up their pursuit of Chelsea defender David Luiz this week.
Sportsmail revealed the Spanish champions' opening offer early last month and, despite an initial rebuttal, they have maintained their interest. Chelsea have put a price tag of around £45m on the Brazilian but Barca hope to negotiate a figure closer to £35m.
Director of football Andoni Zubizaretta has confirmed a centre-back is their priority although they have other options if Chelsea continue to price Luiz out of a deal.
Moving to Spain? David Luiz played for Chelsea against Inter Milan in Indianapolis
Looking good: Chelsea beat Inter 2-0 to maintain their 100 per cent pre-season record
Although Javier Faus, Barcelona’s economic vice-president, said: 'Money won’t be a problem in terms of making a signing.'
Liverpool's Daniel Agger is the favoured plan B. He would be cheaper at around £20m but his wages and injury record may yet go against him.
Manchester City's Vincent Kompany is also on the wishlist but a deal for the talismanic Belgian is unlikely.
Big money bids: Barcelona are set to make a second offer for the Brazilian defender
Sportsmail revealed the Spanish champions' opening offer early last month and, despite an initial rebuttal, they have maintained their interest. Chelsea have put a price tag of around £45m on the Brazilian but Barca hope to negotiate a figure closer to £35m.
Director of football Andoni Zubizaretta has confirmed a centre-back is their priority although they have other options if Chelsea continue to price Luiz out of a deal.
Moving to Spain? David Luiz played for Chelsea against Inter Milan in Indianapolis
Looking good: Chelsea beat Inter 2-0 to maintain their 100 per cent pre-season record
Liverpool's Daniel Agger is the favoured plan B. He would be cheaper at around £20m but his wages and injury record may yet go against him.
Manchester City's Vincent Kompany is also on the wishlist but a deal for the talismanic Belgian is unlikely.
Big money bids: Barcelona are set to make a second offer for the Brazilian defender
