Luiz Felipe Scolari: 'Paulinho unlikely to join Barcelona'

Guangzhou Evergrande boss Luiz Felipe Scolari has suggested that Paulinho will only sign for Barcelona if the La Liga giants pay his release clause.

Paulinho endured a disappointing spell at Tottenham Hotspur between 2013 and 2015, but his form for the Chinese Super League champions has led to interest from Barcelona.

The 28-year-old has confirmed that contact has been made by the Spanish side, but Scolari has claimed that it will take a bid of over £35m for his player to be able to speak about a potential exit.

The former Brazil coach is quoted by The Mirror as saying: "His release clause is €40m and none of the Chinese clubs will let their key players go because it would be difficult and expensive to find a replacement due to the new rules."

Paulinho made just 31 Premier League starts during two seasons in England, despite Spurs shelling out £17.7m for his signature.