Guangzhou Evergrande midfielder Paulinho is a priority target for Barcelona.
The Brazil international revealed talks with Barca last Friday and Sport says he is now a priority for the Catalans.
Barca know Paulinho's Guangzhou Evergrande deal carries a €40 million buyout clause and they're willing to match it.
The two parties have held positive discussions, with Paulinho excited about the plans outlined to him by Barca officials.
The player's restrain in his public comments has been out of respect to his Chinese club, with Barca knowing a diplomatic approach to negotiations is the best way to getting a deal closed smoothly.
Source: tribalfootball.com