Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Ruben Neves but they will not make a move for the Portuguese star until next summer.
That’s according to Sport, who say the Portuguese star is ‘still of interest’ to those in charge at the Nou Camp.
They explain that Neves was a target for Barcelona this summer and was considered as the ‘priority option’ in the ongoing search for Sergio Busquets’ replacement.
However, the financial situation at the club and the ‘pressing need’ to reinforce other positions have slightly altered those plans.
The Wolves star remains in Barcelona’s thought and is still of interest to them, but any move will now be ‘undertaken next summer’ instead.
That’s because Wolves’ demands have been deemed ‘unaffordable’, with them demanding a feel the Cules simply cannot afford as they chase Robert Lewandowski as well.
That will be different next summer, though, when the midfielder will only have a year left on his deal, and his price tag will be around €40-45m.
While the price tag is an issue, manager Xavi and his staff belief that Busquets can still perform at the highest level and be a key player next season.
Thus, the need for an immediate replacement is greatly diminished, further adding to the belief that a move for Neves can be delayed.