Barcelona president Joan Laporte has confirmed the club are exploring further defensive signings amid interest in Chelsea pair Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso.
Standard Sport understands Azpilicueta is ready to leave Stamford Bridge after a decade at the club, with Barca his preferred destination, and has voiced his intentions to Chelsea.
Thomas Tuchel is willing to keep Azpilicueta at Chelsea, and could block a move following Barcelona's hijacking of their own move for Jules Kounde, but is aware of his captain's desire.
Speaking to reporters on Friday morning, Laporta confirmed the club remain in the market for further signings, having confirmed Kounde last night, and defence is the priority.
Laporta said: "Depending on when we can register the new players, we will consider signing more players. We hope that there will be no problems, and we can sign someone."
He added: "I don't rule out another signing, probably for the defence."
Chelsea are understood to want around £7m for Azpilicueta.
