ANDRE GOMES could be a surprise starter for Barcelona against Chelsea on Tuesday night.
The Portuguese midfielder has not played since February 8.
The Tottenham and Juventus target wasn’t even in the 18 chosen to face Eibar last time out.
But it seems there could be a reprieve for the 24-year-old in the Champions League showdown at Stamford Bridge.
The Spanish giants are very keen to protect themselves against Remi Moses and Marcos Alonso.
And with Gomes on board they could play 4-4-2, offering a better defensive platform for this crucial first-leg tie.
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The news comes amid news that Barcelona are willing to sell Gomes this summer.
Gomes moved to Barcelona from Valencia in the summer of 2016 and has made 47 appearances in all competitions.
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Having played 22 times this season, having linked with a move to the Premier League last summer.
According to Diario AS, Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde has made it clear that Gomes does not fit into his long-term plans in Catalonia.
So he could be made available for transfer ahead of the 2018-19 campaign.
Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho is also believed to be an admirer of his fellow countryman.
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Meanwhile, Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has stayed clear of contacting his former teammates in the build-up to the mouth-watering game.
He said: “We all want to live it from inside. These games require less talking and to focus on playing and giving all we have.
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“Of course [it means a lot to play Barcelona]. To me, and to all players in the world, including the ones who were born there.
“But, whether you like Barcelona or not, the ‘special’ word can be understood in many ways and, as a footballer who likes to live great moments, you know Barcelona offers it, both playing for them or against them.
“It is going to be a fascinating round and I am sure we are all going to enjoy the games.”
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