Barcelona eye Liverpool star amid search for new midfielder

Barcelona are keeping a close eye on Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara as the Spanish side look to bolster their squad in the coming transfer windows.

Thiago Alcantara, who played a century of games for Barcelona after coming through their academy, is yet to feature for the Reds this season, the Spaniard having been sidelined with a hip injury that required surgery earlier this year.

Having not played since April, the former Bayern Munich man has suffered a number of setbacks on his road to recovery, but Jurgen Klopp has hinted that he is edging closer to a return to first-team action.

Hopefully, the 32-year-old will be able to play a significant role for the Reds this season, but his contract expires next summer and Liverpool are unlikely to renew his current deal as things stand.

Thiago's lack of game time hasn't concerned old club Barca though, La Blaugrana reportedly interested in bringing the midfielder back to Catalonia.

According to Spanish publication Sport, Xavi is keeping an eye on his former teammate. The La Liga champions could make a move for Thiago in January, but appear far more likely to attempt to sign him on a free transfer next summer.

Thiago will be free to negotiate a pre-contract with his old side from 1 January onwards, with Sport suggesting that Barca are already planning for next season.

Given the Spanish side's financial difficulties, they have regularly utilised the free agent market in recent years, signing former Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan for nothing last transfer window.

On paper, Thiago appears a trademark Barcelona signing in the modern era, while the La Masia product could be tempted by a return to La Liga.

However, there remains a slim chance that Liverpool offer Thiago a contract extension next summer, Klopp often fiercely loyal to players he trusts.

The maestro was given the opportunity to make a move to the Saudi Pro League last summer, but opted to stay at Anfield instead. How much of a future he has on Merseyside may depend on his contributions in the second half of the season.