Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola has reportedly told club officials that David Luiz is a player he wants to sign before the transfer window closes.
The Brazilian defender was linked with Bayern and Barcelona earlier this summer, despite Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho's insistence that there is "no chance" that Luiz will leave Stamford Bridge.
The Bavarian giants are reportedly prepared to launch an initial £34.5m bid to sign Luiz, with a further £4m to be paid in performance-related add-ons, according to The Telegraph.
Guardiola is believed to have asked for Luiz after watching his side lose the German Super Cup 4-2 against Borussia Dortmund on Saturday.
Bayern have Jerome Boateng, Daniel van Buyten, Holger Badstuber and Dante available at centre-back, but Guardiola reportedly wants another option in that area.
Luiz returned to pre-season training at Chelsea yesterday, fresh from an extended break following Confederations Cup duty for Brazil.
Liam Power
