Chelsea transfer news: Ajax centre-back Davinson Sanchez set to spark battle between Blues and Barcelona
Premier League champions have targeted Colombian after discovering Marquinhos is likely to join Manchester United
CHELSEA are set to battle Barcelona for the signature of Ajax centre-back Davinson Sanchez, according to reports.
The title-winning Blues are in the market for a new defender following the departure of captain John Terry.
He has been a key player in Ajax's season, and is expected to start Wednesday's Europa League final against Manchester United.
It is claimed Chelsea are stepping up their interest in Sanchez after discovering top target and Paris Saint-Germain defender Marquinhos is set to join United for £60million.
The Blues have cash to spend in the summer - after banking £150m for their Prem triumph - while Barca's budget will be slashed as they try to tie down their star players.
Chelsea have reportedly approached Ajax about a possible deal - and will continue talks after Wednesday's final.
Sanchez, who is contracted at the Amsterdam Arena until 2021, has made 45 appearances in all competitions this season for the Dutch giants.
Meanwhile, Blues centre-back Kurt Zouma has been linked with a season-long loan move to Marseille.
The Frenchman, 22, who's Stamford Bridge deal expires in 2019, has made just nine appearances for the Premier League winners this season.