Barca consider Asensio move

The Spanish giants are currently in pursuit of Liverpool playmaker Coutinho and Borussia Dortmund winger Dembele, but are struggling to finalise a deal for either.

It is clear that Coutinho is Barcelona's primary target to replace the departed Neymar. Reports on Friday morning, however, claim that Liverpool have rejected a transfer request issued by the Brazilian in order to push through a move to the Nou Camp.

On the other hand, Dortmund are playing hardball over their young talent Dembele and are holding out for a fee in the region of £135m.

According to Spanish publication 'Diario Gol', Barcelona have now turned their attention to Real Madrid's Marco Asesnio. Despite the interest, Real are unlikely to sell after the Spanish midfielder enjoyed a hugely successful campaign under Zinedine Zidane last season.

However, it has been reported that the 21-year-old has a release clause of just €80m (£72m), which in the current transfer market, is not an extortionate amount.

With Real Madrid still considering a move for Monaco striker Kylian Mbappé, it is understood 'Los Blancos' may be tempted into a deal.