Juventus superstar Paulo Dybala will reportedly snub a move to FC Barcelona, as he would prefer to join their arch-rivals instead.
On Thursday, the Catalan side reportedly had a bid of €160 million (R2.46 billion) for the forward rejected by the Serie A giants.
According to Spanish publication Diario Gol, the Argentine would prefer a transfer to Real Madrid next season, and has apparently already had a number of secret talks with club president Florentino Perez.
The report claimed that Lionel Messi had suggested the Blaugrana board sign his fellow countryman, but with no formal contact between the Spanish giants and the player to date, the 23-year-old is said to no longer be keen on a move to the Camp Nou.
The signing of Dybala could mean that Real will sell either Wales international Gareth Bale or France international Karim Benzema – both have been linked with possible Premier League moves, with Manchester United and Arsenal supposedly being the frontrunners, respectively.
10 Famous EPL Deadline Day Signings
Dybala, who is one of the hottest prospects in European football, has scored six goals in three appearances for the Bianconeri already this season.
Where do you think the Argentine will end up next season? Have your say in the comments section below.
