Like Ander Herrera's infamous bout with Eden Hazard when Chelsea faced Manchester United at Old Trafford in 2017, Barcelona have been closely monitoring the Blues' summer transfer business. So much so that two of Thomas Tuchel's primary targets - Jules Kounde and Raphinha - now look to be poached by the Spanish giants.
The Sevilla defender has been heavily linked with a move to west London for some time now after Chelsea first registered interest 12 months ago. football.london understand that Chelsea are 'extremely confident' of landing Kounde this summer, with Xavi's side about to give up.
But, it seems that Barcelona are plotting another swoop for the 23-year-old, casting fresh doubt as to whether Chelsea can win the race for his signature. Meanwhile, with Raphinha, football.london understand that Todd Boehly had a £55million bid, with £10million payable via add-ons, accepted by Leeds United.
