Brazilian defender tops the shortlist for Spanish giants.
Barcelona are reportedly preparing an improved offer in their bid to land Roma defender Marquinhos, according to Goal.com.
The Spanish giants have already had a €20m bid rejected according to speculation, but are ready to step up their interest for arguably one of the most promising defenders in Europe.
However, it is understood that Roma have placed a €30m price tag on the 19-year-old, after he impressed in his debut season in Serie A after completing a switch from Corinthians twelve months ago.
Nevertheless, Barcelona are expected to continue negotiations by improving their initial offer, although it remains to be seen whether the Giallorossi are willing to discuss the future of one of their most promising stars.
It has also been reported that the La Liga champions would be willing to include a player in a part-exchange deal, with Alexis Sanchez touted as a potential bargaining chip.
While there has been no official word from either club on the reported negotiations, it is clear that Barcelona are targeting central defensive reinforcements this summer.
They have already been paired with interest in Arsenal centre-half Laurent Kosielny, while rumours suggested that the club sent scouts out to Brazil during the Confederations Cup to watch Thiago Silva.
However, Marquinhos perhaps offers the most promise given his ability at such a young age, and with his style of play and reading of the game suiting that of Barcelona’s, it would appear that he remains their priority for now.
COMMENTS