Tuchel makes early calls on Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech amid Barcelona interest

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has reportedly blocked Barcelona from loaning Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech in the January transfer window.

Xavi's side appear to be in the market to sign a new attacker in the New Year, but the Catalan's crippling financial situation means they will likely be limited to loan moves and free transfers.

Various reports from Spain had claimed the La Liga giants had made the acquisition of Manchester City striker Ferran Torres a priority, but Pep Guardiola's side were not so enthusiastic on the idea.

And with the chances of signing the Spaniard looking slender, Barcelona reportedly turned their attention to Werner and Ziyech.

However, reports from Sport have claimed Tuchel had prevented a loan move to the Catalans from happening for either of the Blues' attackers.

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Spanish journalist Luiz Miguelsanz claimed Xavi has been 'moving heaven and earth' to try and bring a new attacker who can fire his side up the La Liga table.

While Torres may be their No.1 target, City's reluctance reportedly prompted them to approach Chelsea, where 'new contacts' had been made, according to Sport.

And it was also claimed Chelsea executives were willing to send Ziyech and Werner to the Catalans on a temporary loan spell.

Injuries and poor form had limited Werner and Ziyech to eight Premier League appearances each this season.

They are also competing with Kai Havertz, Mason Mount, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Romelu Lukaku, and Christian Pulisic for the three attacking spots in Chelsea's frontline.

But despite their struggles, Tuchel reportedly stepped in and stated his opposition to the two stars departing the club.

It is believed the former Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund manager did not approve of the deal, as he felt their departures would severely weaken his squad.

Sport believes the German 'commands a lot' at Stamford Bridge, since his spectacular Champions League triumph last season.

And with the Blues currently competing on all fronts, it is believed Tuchel wants to maintain his large squad for the whole season.

Chelsea dropped down to third place after their dramatic 3-2 away defeat to London rivals West Ham United.

Tuchel's side were foiled after taken the lead on two separate occasions against David Moyes' side, before Arthur Masuaku caught Edouard Mendy out, with a goal which may have initially been intended as a cross.

And the West Londoners face another arduous away trip, as they travel to Russia to face Zenit St Petersburg in their final group match.

While progression into the knockout stages has already been assured, Tuchel's side need a victory over the Russian giants to top the group.

They are currently level on points with Italian giants Juventus, who host Swedish side Malmo in their respective contest.

Tuchel will be demanding an immediate response from his side who have endured some frustrating results over the last few weeks.

The Blues have dropped frustrating points against Manchester United and Burnley at Stamford Bridge in recent weeks, which has seen both Manchester City and Liverpool overtake them in the Premier League.