Barcelona make contact with Liverpool forward, Real Madrid also interested

Just a day after reports that revealed Barcelona removed the priority status on Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, it appears the club have not yet given up the possibility of signing a potential alternative for top target Vitor Roque.

As per a report relayed by Diario SPORT, Barcelona are keeping tabs on Roberto Firmino and have expressed the desire to sign him on a free transfer at the end of the season.

Although Barça priority is to sign Vitor Roque, the Brazilian’s high valuation could compel the club to target cost-effective options in the market. While Aubameyang is one, Firmino could prove to be an even better target for the Blaugrana.

Formerly of Hoffenheim, Roberto Firmino was on Barcelona’s radar a few years ago, but the move never really materialised. However, the forward is set to end his association with Liverpool at the end of the season, leaving Anfield with a letter of freedom.

That means Firmino would become a free agent in the summer, which has already put multiple European giants on red alert. Inter Milan and some Saudi Arabian clubs are thought to be interested in his services. But interestingly, even Real Madrid are targeting the forward, as they look for a reliable alternative for Karim Benzema, who is set to extend his contract.

Barcelona could thus face stiff competition if they are to sign Roberto Firmino in the coming summer. But the club are in good space right now and may be able to offer the Brazilian the prospect of playing alongside Lionel Messi and Robert Lewandowski, albeit in a secondary role.

However, Barcelona’s operation to sign Firmino is still in its nascent stages. The club have only informed the player’s agent about their interest and nothing conclusive has happened just yet. The coming weeks could be important, as far as the Brazilian’s future is concerned.