Barcelona Transfers: Malcom Targeted Ahead of Chelsea's Willian
After being priced out by Chelsea, Barca are looking to Bordeaux instead.
Barcelona are reportedly turning their attentions to Bordeaux forward Malcom rather than Chelsea's Willian, according to Catalunya Radio.
The Catalan giants have had three bids rejected by Chelsea over recent weeks, including a £53 million offer for the 29-year-old, and are apparently not willing to meet the Blues' asking price.
Consequently, Barca are now hijacking Roma's move for Malcom. The Italian side had allegedly reached an agreement with Bordeaux for the 21-year-old Brazilian, who scored 12 goals and contributed eight assists last season, before a late intervention from Barcelona.
Furthermore, it's rumoured that Malcom was en route to Rome to complete the move but returned to France after the La Liga champions showed interest.
The news that Barca are shifting their focus away from fan favourite Willian will be great news for Chelsea fans. New manager Maurizio Sarri is keen to retain his services, despite the player reportedly eager for a new challenge.
However, the Blues still have a fight on their hands to keep the winger, with Man Utd looking at him as an option to bolster their attacking line-up.