Former Spurs Flop Paulinho Linked With Another Surprise Move

Every now and again there's a transfer story that makes you rub your eyes with disbelief. Paulinho moving to Bayern Munich earlier this year did exactly that but somehow the latest rumour regarding the midfielder is even more unbelievable.

Remember when Barcelona were linked with Glenn Johnson? I know it's hard to believe that the now Stoke City right back was once linked with one of Europe's best teams and it wasn't even at his peak!

Real Madrid of course out did their rivals, long before the Catalans were linked with Johnson, by signing both Thomas Gravesen and Julian Faubert at different times.

Julien Faubert

_{Faubert at Real, stick can't believe this happened. Image: PA}

But Barcelona could be about to complete a surprising signing of their own if reports in Brazil are anything to go by.

New Barca boss Ernesto Valverde is reportedly, according to Goal, trying to bring former Tottenham Hotspur flop Paulinho from China to the Camp Nou as the Brazilian's stock continues to rise.

_{One of Valverde's first signing could be Paulinho, really?! Image: PA}

Just a few months ago he was linked with a move to the Allianz Arena but the transfer never materialised but now it looks like he could move to La Liga.

Paulinho has been an integral part of Brazil's side since Tite took over as national team manager in June last year after the team had a miserable time in the Copa América Centenario.

Since then Brazil have returned to the top of the FIFA rankings and become the first team, other than the hosts, to qualify for the World Cup in Russia next summer by winning seven games in a row.

Paulinho

_{Paulinho has been brilliant for Brazil in the last year. Image: PA}

The 28 year old now plays in the super rich Chinese Super League for Guangzhou Evergrande under Luiz Felipe Scolari where he has become an integral member of the team.

He has a contract with the CSL side till 2020 and is said to be enjoying his time in the Far East but a move to La Liga could change his mind and the two clubs have started negotiating.

The former Corinthians player was brought to England as one of the 'Beatles' to replace Gareth 'Elvis' Bale but lasted only two seasons at White Hart Lane.

Having seen Paulinho at Spurs would there be a weirder move than him ending up at Barcelona?

Topics: Spurs, Barcelona

Ryan Sidle

Ryan is a writer for SPORTbible. He covers all sport from football, formula one, cricket, rugby, tennis, athletics, mma and wrestling. He obviously hates YOUR football team and has no interest in synchronised swimming.

@Sidler28