Barcelona plot shock move for Liverpool star that Xavi 'really likes'

Barcelona are reportedly considering a move for Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino.

The Brazilian is out of contract at the end of the season and could be allowed to leave Liverpool on a free transfer in the summer.

Liverpool were in talks with the 31-year-old over a potential contract extension earlier this season.

But it is unclear if he will be offered a new deal, following the signing of Cody Gakpo from PSV Eindhoven.

According to reports in Spain, Barcelona are considering a potential move for Firmino.

El Chiringuito journalist Jose Alvarez claims Barcelona boss Xavi "really likes" the Brazil international and could be prepared to offer him a deal.

Barcelona are said to be interested in signing Firmino as a replacement for Memphis Depay, who is expected to leave the Nou Camp either in January or when his contract expires in the summer.

Now into the final six months of his deal at Anfield, Firmino is able to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs.

Will Firmino leave Liverpool?

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp insists the signing of Gakpo will have no bearing on whether Firmino is offered a new deal.

Klopp has suggested the striker, who has scored nine goals in all competitions this season, could remain with the club for the rest of the season and potentially beyond.

When asked if Gakpo's arrival will have an impact on Firmino staying, Klopp said: "No. We had talks with Bobby. From my point of view, I want him definitely to stay.

"It has no impact. If it affects Bobby then you'd have to ask him."

Firmino is one of Liverpool's longest-serving players, having joined the club from Hoffenheim in 2015.

He has scored 107 goals in 348 games for the Reds and has been an integral part of the side throughout Klopp's time as manager.

The Brazilian has won every major club honour available during his spell with Liverpool, including both the Champions League and Premier League.

He has also won 55 caps for Brazil but missed out on a place in their squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Topics: Liverpool, Barcelona, Premier League, La Liga, Roberto Firmino, Football, Transfers

Rory O'Callaghan

Rory O'Callaghan is Editorial Lead at SPORTbible. He has previously worked for Sky Sports News, MailOnline and Reach covering football, cricket, boxing and MMA. Tested daily as a Liverpool fan in a Manchester office.

@rory_ocallaghan