Barcelona transfer news: Messi a roadblock for Mourinho, Valverde to sign Liverpool target and more - 5th October 2017

Lionel Messi's relationship with Jordi Alba to thwart Mourinho

The Manchester United manager is looking to sign a new left-back with the existing ones not impressing the Portuguese. Mourinho has tried Daley Blind, Matteo Darmian, Ashley Young and Luke Shaw at the position but none could own the role so far.

Thus, Don Balon reports that Mourinho approached Barcelona to sign left-back Jordi Alba. However, Manchester United have a roadblock in the form of Lionel Messi.

The Argentine shares great rapport with Alba leading to the Spaniard reportedly rejecting Mourinho's advances. It remains to be seen whether the Portuguese comes back with a bigger offer.

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Valverde wants Julian Brandt to replace Luis Suarez

Valverde wants Brandt to replace Suarez

Marca reports that Barcelona shifted their interest towards Bayer Leverkusen's Julian Brandt to succeed Luis Suarez. The Uruguayan striker has struggled for goals this season and reportedly, Ernesto Valverde has concerns regarding Suarez's weight.

Therefore, the Barcelona gaffer has earmarked Brandt as the top target to replace him. Liverpool were reportedly interested in the 21-year old but will have to now compete with the Spanish club for the German.

While the reports state that it is not clear whether Barcelona will bid in January or in the summer, either way, it is going to cost the Catalans in excess of €70 million to get the player.

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Insigne talks about Barcelona move

Insigne rejected Barcelona in the summer

Lorenzo Insigne confirmed Barcelona's approach in the summer for his services and revealed the reason behind his rejection of the move. He told Rai Sport:

“I am proud to have stayed here at Napoli. Barcelona are the best team in the world. I’d love to have played with Messi and Suarez but I am happy in Naples and I’ve stayed to win trophies.

"When I was younger Torino and Inter refused to sign because I was too little. Good for me, I’ve now fulfilled my dream to play for Napoli.”

So, Napoli's success this season could have a possible bearing on the Italian's future next summer.