Barcelona are to provide Atletico Madrid with late competition for the signing of Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata, according to a report.
The 26-year-old's time at Stamford Bridge is up after failing to make an impact under Maurizio Sarri this season.
Chelsea are hopeful of striking a deal with a Spanish club this month, but their hefty £45m asking price, coupled with the player's high wages, are making it difficult to do so.
Sevilla have already pulled out of the running, claiming that it was "impossible" to reach an agreement with the Blues, seemingly leaving Atletico with a clear run to sign the Spain international.
Talks between all three parties are believed to be at an advanced stage, but The Express claims that Barcelona may yet step forward with an offer of their own.
Barcelona reportedly have their work cut out persuading Morata to join them over Atleti, however, as the ex-Real Madrid ace wants to return to the Spanish capital.
Morata has scored just 16 goals in 47 Premier League appearances for Chelsea.
Daniel Lewis
