Chelsea target Barcelona star Denis Suarez

Chelsea have targeted Barcelona star Denis Suarez

Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri has been eyeing Barcelona midfielder Denis Suarez with a potential move to Stamford Bridge in January, according to reports.

The 24-year-old has struggled for first-team action at Barcelona and was left out of the Champions League squad to face Inter Milan on Tuesday.

Suarez, who has made just one appearance so far this term, spent two years at Manchester City before switching to Spain, and he's now worried about his lack of playing time.

Sarri tried to sign Suarez on two separate occasions when he was Napoli boss and Marca claim the Italian will move for the Spanish international again if he becomes available.

The report claims he faces stiff competition from his former club who have retained an interest in the midfielder from Sarri’s time at the club.

Valencia are the other club touted as a potential destination for Suarez who is unlikely to be short of suitors should he push to leave the Camp Nou.

Sarri's continued interest in the playmaker likely stems from the continued uncertainty surrounding Mateo Kovacic's future at the Bridge.

The 24-year-old has been a regular in Maurizio Sarri’s side, making 12 appearances since his arrival on a season-long loan deal from Real Madrid.

When asked last month about staying at Stamford Bridge long-term, Kovacic said: “It’s too early for these questions. I am here and very happy.

“Playing regularly is good. I’m a little bit tired. I was not used to playing every three or four games and here it is very tough football.

“You can’t relax against anybody so it’s a little bit difficult but I really enjoy it. We have a great team, great fans and the city is nice. I like it a lot here.”