Barcelona are looking to improve their defensive department this month, and they have identified Ajax defender Nicolas Tagliafico as their top target.
According to a report from Marca, the La Liga giants are currently in talks with Ajax regarding the potential move, but the Dutch outfit are not keen on selling the player midway through the season.
However, Barcelona still hope to reach an agreement to sign the Argentine international before the January transfer window closes.
The Ajax left-back is very keen on a move to the Spanish club, and it could help Barcelona pressure Ajax to sell the player.
The report from Marca adds that the likes of Napoli, Marseille, Aston Villa and Chelsea are all keen on signing the defender. Still, the player has asked his agent to terminate talks with any potential suitors to push through a move to Barcelona.
It is no surprise that Tagliafico is determined to join the Spanish La Liga club this month. It would be a major step up in his career, and the chance to join the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona are always a tempting proposition for South American players.
Barcelona have reportedly offered a loan deal with the purchase option at the end of the season because of their financial struggles. It will be interesting to see if Ajax are willing to accept such a deal for the left-back.
Ideally, the Dutch outfit would look to cash in on the player in January, but Barcelona might not be able to afford him right now unless it is a loan with an option to buy.
Tagliafico has proven himself in the Dutch league over the years, and he will be hoping to showcase his qualities in the Spanish league once the transfer goes through.
Barcelona could definitely use more depth at the back, and the Argentine international could challenge Jordi Alba for a starting berth for the rest of the season.
