Barcelona lead Chelsea and Manchester City in race for Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci

CHELSEA look set to be pipped to the transfer of Leonardo Bonucci by Barcelona.

Rumours have abounded all summer that Antonio Conte will add the 30-year Juventus players to the ranks at Stamford Bridge.

With John Terry released, Nathan Ake sold to Bournemouth and doubts over whether Kurt Zouma is ready for a first-team spot, Bonucci was viewed as the ideal signing.

But Italian news-site Tuttosport are reporting that the Catalan giants, who are set to be remodelled somewhat under new boss Ernesto Valverde, are now in for the centre-half.

And that could spell big trouble for Chelsea, and Manchester City, who are also eyeing some defensive additions.

SunSport has previously reported how Conte has reportedly laid “siege” over his bid for Leonardo Bonucci – with Chelsea ready to splash £100million on him and Alex Sandro.

Tuttosport claim the Blues are still willing to pay around £48m for Bonucci, whom Conte is eager to bring back under his fold.

The pair have previous having worked together at Juventus.

Conte is desperate to nab Bonucci – and is even willing to throw in Nemanja Matic to secure the deal.

Meanwhile, the move for Bonucci will form near enough half of the £100m swoop for him and Sandro.

Goal report that Chelsea will up their bid for the 26-year-old Brazilian from 55.2m to £58m.

However, Juve want to keep their man and have reportedly offered him a contract until 2022.

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