RUMOURS: Chelsea outcast Ivanovic emerges as shock Barcelona target

Out-of-favour Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic has emerged as a shock January target for La Liga giants Barcelona, according to 'the Sun'.

The Serbia international has failed to establish himself under Blues boss Antonio Conte - the 32-year-old has not made a start since the 3-0 defeat to Arsenal back in September - and is seen as a possible replacement for Dani Alves, who left for Juventus in the summer. 

The same reports suggest that Barcelona's main priority is a new contract for star Lionel Messi, and having spent a substantial amount in the summer on the likes of Samuel Umtiti, Denis Suarez and Palco Alcacer, funds are said to be limited.

Darijo Srna of Shakthar Donetsk is also said to be a target, as Barca chiefs continue their search for a short-term solution at right-back.