Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum has reportedly told his friends that he is pining for a summer move to Barcelona.
The former Newcastle United man has not reached an agreement with the Premier League champions over a new deal, with Michael Edwards believed to be reluctant to cave into the player's demands.
Wijnaldum has been heavily linked with a move to Camp Nou as the clock ticks on his time at Anfield, although reports have suggested that Lionel Messi's preference for the club to promote academy prospects could scupper a move.
However, The Mirror claims that Wijnaldum still sees his future in Catalonia, and the move appeals to a cash-strapped Barcelona as he would arrive as a free agent ahead of the 2021-22 campaign.
The report adds that the prospect of playing alongside Messi - who is supposedly set to stay at the club - has convinced the 30-year-old to complete a move to Barcelona, and he can expect to reunite with compatriot Memphis Depay, who is also thought to be closing in on a transfer as a free agent.
Wijnaldum has made 43 appearances for Jurgen Klopp's side across all competitions this term, and the Reds are rumoured to have earmarked Rennes starlet Eduardo Camavinga as a potential replacement.
Ben Knapton
