Barcelona are 'eyeing up a move for Ajax star Edson Alvarez' as they look to replace Sergio Busquets

Barcelona are reportedly eyeing up a move for Ajax star Edson Alvarez next summer, after identifying the midfielder as a replacement for Sergio Busquets.

The 25-year-old has become a key figure for the Dutch champions - after joining from Mexican side Club América in 2019 - with his solid performances in the heart of their midfield.

His talent has drawn the interest of the Catalan side but they might have to act swiftly to secure his services given Chelsea's confirmed interest in the Ajax star.

According to SPORT, Xavi's side are monitoring Alvarez's situation as the prepare to launch a bid for the midfielder in the next summer window.

They are looking for suitable options to replace Busquets when he inevitably leaves the club in the near future - having spent 15 years in Barcelona.

Club scouts have been present to watch Alvarez in Champions League games against Rangers, Liverpool and Napoli.

Barcelona are also considering Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi, Benfica's Enzo Fernandez and PSV's Ibrahim Sangare - while Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves has also been offered to the club.

The Catalan side will do well to secure Alvarez's services given Chelsea's proven interest in the Ajax player - after they saw a £43million bid rejected in summer.

Alvarez was reportedly furious at the Dutch side rejecting the offer and consequently refused to train in order to push through a move to Stamford Bridge.

The 25-year-old was told that Ajax would not negotiate with the west London side because the Dutch transfer market closed just a few nights later.

Ajax therefore would not have been able to sign a replacement in time, however the situation may be entirely different when Barcelona coming knocking next summer.