Barcelona have taken a step closer towards signing Marco Verratti

Posted Saturday, April 29, 2017 by givemesport.com

Ever since the departure of Xavi Hernandez, Barcelona's midfield has just not been the same force. With Andres Iniesta now getting on in years, the Blaugrana will no doubt have to invest heavily in the area.

The likes of Ivan Rakitic, Andre Gomes and Denis Suarez are all still at the club and on their day, they can be effective at the heart of Barca's midfield.

But, if they are to maintain their status among Europe's elite, you feel that the Catalan club require a marquee signing, a midfielder of significant standing that will have their rivals looking over their shoulders.

The sale of Thiago Alcantara to Bayern Munich looks more foolish by the week as he continues to excel in Germany. The La Masia graduate would have been the perfect candidate to take the baton from Iniesta.

However, the Blaugrana may have identified the man they need to further galvanise their midfield, Paris Saint-Germain star, Marco Verratti.

That is according to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, who say that Barca have spoken to the Italian's agent about a deal and the player is very much looking forward to the move.

It would be a huge coup for the La Liga giants regardless of the transfer fee - which would probably be around £80m.

Verratti was the star for the French side when they destroyed Barca 4-0 at the Parc des Princes, providing a sumptuous assist for Julian Draxler's goal on the night.

In the French capital, the Italian international looked every inch a Blaugrana midfielder, a player who perfectly fit the prototype.

The Spanish club have not been stingy with their cash in recent windows, splashing on the likes of Luis Suarez, Paco Alcacer, Samuel Umtiti and Gomes.

This summer, after a disappointing European campaign, expect them to do the same again. At just 24-years-old, Verratti would be a shrewd investment, one that the next Barca manager can start building a team around.