Barcelona news: Lionel Messi learns of Chelsea transfer talks after Champions League clash

BARCELONA talisman Lionel Messi has reportedly learned the La Liga giants will try and negotiate with Chelsea for Marco Alonso after their Champions League clash.

Barcelona have travelled to Chelsea ahead of the first leg of their last-16 Champions League clash at Stamford Bridge.

The Catalan giants are favourites to reach the next round, with the club flourishing under the tutelage of Ernesto Valverde.

And Spanish outlet Don Balon claims Barcelona are determined to strengthen in the summer by luring Alonso away from Chelsea.

Many were shocked when the Spaniard signed for the Blues from Fiorentina in 2016.

But the 27-year-old was a big hit last season, helping Chelsea to the Premier League title in Antonio Conte’s first season in charge.

And Barcelona, it seems, are now determined to secure the player’s signature.

Messi has reportedly learned that Valverde’s side will try and negotiate with Chelsea for Alonso after the match.

Barcelona are on the lookout for a new left-back with Lucas Digne’s performances leaving much to be desired.

And Alonso has reportedly been deemed good enough to jostle with Jordi Alba for a place in Valverde’s side.

Should Chelsea approve, negotiations will commence immediately.

But the Blues may be reluctant to let the Spaniard go.

Alonso has been a regular performer amid a difficult season under Conte.

Yet he may not be the only Chelsea player on the move this summer.

Eden Hazard and Thibaut Courtois have both been tipped to leave for Real Madrid.

And Willian remains tracked by Jose Mourinho at Manchester United.

Source: www.express.co.uk