BARCELONA are set to step up their interest in outgoing Manchester City star Sergio Aguero.
SunSport exclusively revealed the Catalan giants’ interest in the Argentine back in January.
And with Man City announcing their legendary striker’s upcoming departure last month, the path would seem to have cleared for Ronald Koeman’s men.
But Barca will still have to beat off interest from several other clubs.
According to Sport, the Catalan side will now accelerate their interest in Aguero, having had a period to plan.
The 32-year-old is reportedly being chased by the likes of Juventus, Chelsea and Arsenal.
And the Italian giants are believed to have offered him a two-year contract on around £165,000-a-week.
Barcelona cannot match that offer, but hope to lure Aguero with other factors.
His friendship with Lionel Messi is no secret, and his desire to play with his compatriot could play a major role in not only convincing him to sign – but also in making Barca’s No10 stay put.
It is also claimed that Aguero likes the idea of returning to Spain, where he played for five years with Atletico Madrid.
FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN SIGN UP OFFERS HERE
The arrival of Aguero wouldn’t prevent Barcelona from trying to sign another striker.
Sport also claim that Koeman desires another, younger forward – with Lautaro Martinez and Erling Haaland still on their radar.
Club chiefs met with the latter’s father Alf-Inge and agent Mino Raiola earlier this month.
But Barcelona still have a difficult financial balancing act to maintain, as they aim to strengthen for next season – while proving to Messi that he can win more medals with his boyhood club.
Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
