Barcelona launch £30m bid for Chelsea defender David Luiz

Barcelona have launched a £30million bid for David Luiz.

Barca, who for all of their quality remain short of options at the back, are prepared to increase their offer for the talented defender who they view as the long-term successor to captain Carles Puyol.

He has become a key player since his arrival from Benfica in January 2011 but he is tempted by joining arguably Europe's strongest team.

In addition to lining up alongside Gerard Pique or Puyol, Luiz would be play alongside Brazil team-mates Dani Alves and Neymar.

Barca last season were forced to play midfielders Javier Mascherano or Alex Song at the back in Puyol's absence and it is this, combined with Luiz's ability to bring the ball out of defence, that makes him their top target.