SportBook Service | Barcelona could hand Andre Gomes shock start against Chelsea in Champions League

ANDRE GOMES could be a surprise starter for Barcelona against Chelsea on Tuesday night.

The Portuguese midfielder has not played since February 8.

Andre Gomes could be in the Barcelona midfieldCredit: Reuters

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 Victor 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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Gomes hasn't played since February 8Credit: Getty Images - Getty

He could be deployed to stop Victor Moses and Marcos AlonsoCredit: AFP

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 toDiario AS, Barcelona bossErnesto Valverdehas made it clear that Gomes does not fit into his long-term plans in Catalonia.

Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho is thought to admire Andre GomesCredit: Getty Images - Getty

Blues midfielder Cesc Fabregas has not been in touch with his former team-matesCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd

So he could be made available for transfer ahead of the 2018-19 campaign.

Manchester United bossJose Mourinhois also believed to be an admirer of his fellow countryman.

Five ways Chelsea can beat Barcelona, including pressing high on Lionel Messi

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.

"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."