BARCELONA reportedly turned their attention to signing Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez after being knocked back by Tottenham in their approach for Harry Kane.
The Blaugrana are understood to be on the lookout for a new centre-forward to replace the ageing Luis Suarez, 33, who has just one year left on his deal at the Nou Camp.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barca had identified Kane as their No1 priority having been left impressed by his lethal finishing in front goal.
The England skipper has scored 181 goals in 278 games, with the ex-Leyton Orient loanee winning the Premier League Golden Boot on two occasions.
It has been claimed that Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu contacted Spurs last year, but Daniel Levy told the Spanish side he was not for sale.
This led the LaLiga outfit to look elsewhere, with Inter marksman Martinez now the club’s preferred target.
The Argentinian international – who has banged in nine goals in 17 international appearances – has been in inspired form for the Nerazzurri.
In 31 games in all appearances this season, the 22-year-old has chipped in with 16 goals and four assists.
And Mundo Deportivo state that Barca are now ready to push ahead with a move to bring him to Catalonia, but they will not be able to stump up the £100milllion fee.
Quique Setien’s side are believed to be in huge debt due to the Covid-19 pandemic, with the club reluctant to refund their season ticket holders.
Therefore it has been claimed that Barca will offer Inter players as well as cash in exchange for Martinez.
Lionel Messi has publicly lauded his compatriot, as he said: “I think I already mentioned it, that Lautaro is an impressive striker, especially because I think he is a very complete forward.
“He is strong, he dribbles well, he scores goals, he knows how to protect the ball.
“But well, we will have to see what happens finally with him and with other players.”
