Barcelona have lodged a bid for Chelsea defender David Luiz.

New Barca manager Gerardo Martino has made the capture of a centre-back a top priority for the rest of the transfer window, with the Brazilian international thought to be his top target.

The bid is understood to be a cash only deal and does not involve any Barcelona players moving to Stamford Bridge in a part exchange.

The Brazilian's slightly renegade defensive style has put his long-term future at risk under Jose Mourinho who favours less cavalier defenders.