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Miralem Pjanic is firmly on Chelsea’s radar for a summer transfer after falling down the pecking order at Barcelona, according to a report.

Pjanic joined Barcelona from Juventus in a swap deal with Arthur Melo last summer. However, the Bosnian has struggled to make a significant impression at Camp Nou. Just six of his 17 La Liga appearances so far have been as a starter.

Hence, there have already been rumours that he could depart just one year into his contract, which should last until 2024. The Premier League has been touted as a potential destination.

For example, Manchester United were suitors for Pjanic before he moved to Barcelona. Claims recently arose that they could revive their interest.

But they would seemingly face competition from Chelsea. According to Diario Sport, the Blues were also keen last summer and have now asked for information about his current situation.

Having reached the Champions League final, Chelsea have newfound appeal under Thomas Tuchel. They should be able to attract even more top players after their spending spree last summer.

Pjanic would add further experience and creativity to their midfield. Therefore, they are trying to find out whether he would be worth signing.

Barcelona are in a tricky situation, as they paid €60m for him and know they can’t get it back. Hence, it may be more likely for Pjanic to make the move on loan at first.

As well as Chelsea, newly crowned Serie A champions Inter Milan are also eager to explore a deal. Pjanic previously enjoyed more success in Serie A, so Inter could hope to benefit from him returning to Italy.

The midfielder’s preference is to stay with Barcelona, but if a big club comes calling, he would be open to the move. Chelsea or Inter would seemingly fit the bill.

If he doesn’t move, Pjanic will find himself way down the hierarchy at Barca. He has apparently spoken with Ronald Koeman, who has told him that he has to get past Frenkie De Jong, Sergio Busquets, Ilaix Moriba and Sergi Roberto.

It seems that a move away would be in everyone’s best interests, so Chelsea will be watching on.

Tuchel wants to build around Kante

If Pjanic was to move to Stamford Bridge, he could provide a different dynamic next to N’Golo Kante.

Kante has proved an astute signing for the Blues since arriving from Leicester in a £32m deal from Leicester in 2016. He helped Chelsea to the Premier League title in his first season, since adding the FA Cup and the Europa League.

Although several managers have come and gone during Kante’s time at Stamford Bridge, he remains a constant. Having made 214 appearances for the club, he is a player widely appreciated by all who play with and against him.

Tuchel has described Kante as a “dream player” and insists he’s the man he wants to build his side around.

“He is the guy you need to win trophies. That is why I am so, so happy he is here [at Chelsea],” Tuchel said earlier this week.

“I have dreamed about this player, fighting for this player at any club I was coaching at and now he is my player.

“For me he is an example, an unbelievable input for any team in the world. He will be key.

“N’Golo is a nice guy, almost a shy person. He is quiet, he likes his own quality time and he is not loud.

“I see him smile a lot, very shy and polite but I am so happy that players like him exist. It is a pleasure to watch.

“What he is doing with his mentality, a real helper. He always gives everything to help anybody on the pitch and such a nice, humble and quiet guy.”

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