Chelsea have placed Gerard Martín on their defensive shortlist as Xabi Alonso looks to strengthen the left side of his back line.The Barcelona defender offers useful flexibility because he can operate as a traditional left-back or move inside as a left-sided centre-back.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYThat versatility makes Martín an appealing option for Chelsea, particularly if Alonso plans to switch between a back four and a three-defender system.However, AC Milan are currently pushing harder and appear ready to increase their offer after identifying the Spaniard as a priority target.Barcelona would prefer to keep Martín, with Hansi Flick viewing him as an important squad member.Though, the Catalan club have not completely ruled out a sale if a significant proposal arrives.Chelsea monitor situation as Milan increase their offerSources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside that Chelsea and AC Milan are both seriously interested in Martín.Milan previously offered around €20 million and are now reportedly prepared to raise their proposal towards €35 million.Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustFlick has asked Barcelona to resist the approaches because he values Martín’s tactical reliability and ability to cover multiple defensive roles.However, president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco must also consider the financial benefits of selling an academy-developed player for a substantial fee.Chelsea have yet to make a confirmed formal offer, which gives Milan an early advantage.The Blues may therefore need to decide quickly whether Martín is a genuine priority or simply one of several left-sided defenders being monitored.Flick has described Martín as a ‘superb‘ player.More Stories / Latest NewsReport: Man United explore option of using Rashford in swap deal for midfield signingJul 27 2026, 6:53Arsenal learn staggering asking price of Real Madrid attacker Vinícius JúniorJul 27 2026, 6:47Sources: Chelsea join top clubs in the race to sign ‘superb’ Barcelona playerJul 27 2026, 6:35Smart tactical fit but Blues should avoid a bidding warBarcelona’s official website confirms that Martín is contracted until June 2028, leaving the Spanish champions in a strong negotiating position.From Chelsea’s perspective, Martín would provide balance, technical security and greater flexibility in possession.At 24, he is young enough to develop further but already experienced enough to compete for immediate first-team minutes.A fee around €30-35 million would be reasonable for a versatile Barcelona-trained defender.However, Chelsea should not become involved in an auction simply because Milan are prepared to raise their offer.The player’s preference will also be decisive. If Martín remains determined to work under Flick, Chelsea would be better moving towards a target who is fully committed to joining Alonso’s project.The deal makes tactical sense, but only at the right price and with clear encouragement from the player.Talks happening now: Arsenal transfer target willing to join Chelsea insteadThe post Sources: Chelsea join top clubs in the race to sign ‘superb’ Barcelona player appeared first on CaughtOffside.