Man Utd and Liverpool target Ousmane Dembele will receive a new Barcelona contract, according to reports.
The French winger has been linked with a move to the Premier League after struggling in Spain.
He’s had a torrid time with Barca in recent years, mainly due to persistent injuries.
FEATURE: Premier League winners and losers after north London derby
However, Dembele has managed to turn his fortunes around slightly in recent weeks.
His influence on the team is growing and he’s beginning to find form.
The 23-year-old scored in Barca’s recent La Liga victory over Sevilla.
According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo (via Metro), Barca are becoming more confident with Dembele and will reward him with a new contract soon.
They think he can become a star at the Nou Camp as long as he maintains fitness.
Dembele currently earns a reported £197,ooo a week with the Catalan giants. He will likely receive a significant wage increase, making him one of the highest paid players at the club.
The news comes as a major blow to both Man Utd and Liverpool.
Man Utd have been trying to solve their gap at right wing for some time now. They apparently saw Dembele as a cheaper alternative to Dortmund’s Jadon Sancho, who looks set to remain in Germany.
The Red Devils were hoping to pounce on Dembele’s uncertain situation by launching a bid this summer.
Liverpool were also said to be interested in signing the France international.
They’re looking at long-term successors to their famous front three.
Dembele was among the list of potential suitors, but a transfer is now unlikely.
Barca will tie the player down to fresh terms and look set to give him a massive price tag.
Liverpool could instead pursue Leeds United star Raphinha.
The uncapped Brazilian, signed from Rennes, has been brilliant in the Premier League this season.
He’s proven his ability to compete at the highest level and looks like a future star.
Speaking about Raphinha’s talents, former Reds man Steve McManaman said recently: “I don’t want to disrespect Leeds but of course he could play for a big six club. He could easily fit in a team like that. I just think Liverpool need a player who can change the way they play a bit.
“I was watching Bayern Munich against Borussia Dortmund the other day. They had Leroy Sane on one side, Kingsley Coman on the other side, then they brought Serge Gnabry on.
“So they can change the way they play quite easily by throwing a couple of wingers on and I think that’s what Liverpool look as though they need at the moment.”
The post Man Utd, Liverpool target Dembele set for new Barca contract appeared first on Football365.