Barcelona keeping tabs on Saudi-linked Marcelo Brozovic

Speculations have been rife over Inter Milan midfielder Marcelo Brozovic, who is attracting interest from Saudi giants Al Nassr.

The Riyadh-based outfit, also home to superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, are pushing to sign the Croatian midfielder and have tabled an increased offer of €18 million, reports Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.

Inter, who previously considered Brozovic untouchable, are now open to selling him for a suitable offer as it could ease their financial troubles.

The Champions League finalists have also lined up Sassuolo midfielder Davide Frattesi as a potential replacement should Brozovic leave San Siro in the summer.

However, the report also adds that La Liga giants Barcelona are keeping an eye on the 30-year-old as they are scouring the market for midfield reinforcements following the departure of club legend Sergio Busquets.

Barca have held a long-term interest in Brozovic and were previously rumoured to have discussed a swap deal involving Franck Kessie with Inter.

The Catalan giants may be an attractive destination to Brozovic, but the sticking point will be the wages and transfer fee.

The former Dinamo Zagreb star is said to be tempted by the wages Al Nassr are ready to offer, which will be unmatched by the La Liga giants given their financial crisis.

Furthermore, the Catalan giants could also have second thoughts on his valuation when they have other priorities in Ilkay Gundogan – who is available for free – and Martin Zubimendi, a much younger player.

The time is also against Barca since Brozovic is increasingly leaning towards a move to Al Nassr.

Xavi’s men appear to have unlocked their first signing of the summer as they are on the verge of agreeing a deal with Athletico Paranaense striker Vitor Roque.

Gundogan remains the priority target, and a decision is soon expected from the Manchester City midfielder, though reports are stating that Barca are in pole position.