Barcelona remain interested in Paris Saint-Germain’s Adrien Rabiot but are aware it could prove difficult to sign the midfielder this summer, sources have said.
Barca’s new sporting director Eric Abidal, therefore, travelled tothe French capital earlier this month in an attempt to improve the relationship between the clubs.
However, the Catalan side are not optimistic about things changing this summer and may have to wait until next year to sign Rabiot, when he would be available for free if he doesn’t sign a new deal in Paris.
PSG have so far refused to open a line of negotiation for Rabiot, who was one of the surprise omissions from France’s World Cup winning squad.
Coach Thomas Tuchel would like Rabiot to stay but will leave the final decision with the player himself.
“You can see Adrien’s potential — he still has room to grow,” Tuchel said after a recent friendly. “I love this player. I love working with him and his potential is clear to see.
“Regarding Adrien’s contract situation, ultimately, it is up to him. He must decide if he wants to commit to us, to our style and to his formative club. Otherwise, he will go for a new challenge.”
Barca have already made three signings since the transfer window opened, with Arthur Melo, Clement Lenglet and Malcom arriving for a combined €108 million.
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