THE BLUES have identified Real Madrid's Marco Asensio as an alternative to Barcelona's Osmonne Dembele.

Chelsea were linked with making a cut-price move for the French winger from the Catalonian giants, but a transfer now looks unlikely.

Thomas Tuchel has now switched his attention to Madrid's Asensio as a possible alternative to the Barca winger.

According to Spanish outlet Defensa Central, the Blues have now made contact over a deal for Asensio.

Chelsea are intrigued to know if Asensio could be sold in the summer.

The 26-year-old has been in good form this season as he has scored seven goals in 23 appearances in all competitions.

Asensio was once one of the most promising players in Europe when he first broke through at Madrid but injuries have curtailed his progress.

He cost Los Blancos only €3.9m in July 2015 in his transfer from Mallorca.

The report suggests that his club will wait until the end of the season to decide if they want to cash in on the Spaniard.

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