Barcelona have proposed a swap deal that would see them send Franck Kessie to Inter Milan and sign Marcelo Brozovic in return, according to a fresh report.
Kessie only joined Barca from AC Milan in July on a free transfer, but the Catalan giants could already be looking to move him on.
Sky Sports Italy claim the two clubs are discussing a potential swap deal via intermediaries.
However, while Inter are said to be admirers of the Ivorian, they are uncertain about the move.
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Though they are both central midfielders, I Nerazzurri are thought to have concerns over Kessie’s style of play, with the 26-year-old less technically sound than the Brozovic.
Indeed, Inter’s Kristjan Asllani has been heralded as Brozovic’s long-term successor though is not thought to be ready to inherit the starting role yet.
Why a swap deal?
Kessie is experiencing a sustained spell outside the first team for the first time in his career.
He has so far made just eight La Liga appearances for Xavi Hernandez’s side, only two of which were as a starter.
Meanwhile, Brozovic is still recovering from an injury sustained with Croatia at the World Cup in Qatar.
So far the 30-year-old has been restricted to just 10 Serie A appearances for the Milan side, though he has been a vital part of Inter's first team for some time.
A swap deal would be feasible, with both players having a salary of around £100,000 per week, with contracts set to expire in 2026.
What has Xavi said?
Kessie struggled for form from the moment he arrived in Spain. He was being linked with a January move away back in October, with the likes of Tottenham Hotspur thought to be interested at the time.
Three months ago Xavi insisted that Kessie would be a central part of his plans.
Speaking in October the Barcelona manager said: "He's important, the other day was fine.
"He had to leave in the 30th minute, he gave depth, he won duels, he's fine.
"He will have minutes and will be important for the team."
Topics: Football, Inter Milan, Barcelona, Transfers
Chris Byfield