Chelsea lead the race for Suarez

CHELSEA are ready to rival AC Milan in the £45million race to lure Denis Suarez away from Barcelona next month.

The Blues are keen to strengthen their midfield and Suarez (right) wants to leave the Nou Camp after dropping down the pecking order.

The Spain international, 24, is in his second stint at Barca but has made only two appearances this season and is anxious for more regular game-time.

Suarez spent two seasons at Manchester City before joining the Spanish giants for the first time in 2013 and is open to the idea of returning to the Premier League in the transfer window.

Milan want Suarez on loan, with an option to buy him at the end of the season.

Barca prefer a cash deal in January and that would give Chelsea a clear advantage in the race for his signature.