Transfer news: Chelsea and Manchester City face battle for Mateo Musacchio

Premier League clubs must compete with Barcelona for Villareal centre-back

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Chelsea and Manchester City could be set for a fight with Barcelona if they want to secure the services of Villareal defender Mateo Musacchio.

The centre-back has had a great start to the La Liga season, playing every minute of Villareal's games, and he has reportedly started to attract the interest of bigger clubs.

Villareal have had five clean sheets already this season and are sitting in a slightly surprising fifth place in the table, thanks in part to the defensive efforts of Musacchio.

Chelsea's recent striking problems have led Jose Mourinho to consider playing more defensively and as a result he may well want to bring in some players at the back.

Inter Milan's Andrea Ranocchia is another player thought to be on his list.

Man City meanwhile are keen to find reliable cover for Vincent Kompany who has struggled with injuries recently.

With Barcelona also reportedly interested in Musacchio, this January could see a fascinating shoot out between three of football's richest clubs.