Barcelona end interest in Arsenal and Liverpool target after hearing £4.4m transfer demand

Nolito has scored five goals for Celta Vigo this season

BARCELONA will not pursue their interest in Celta Viga star Nolito after hearing his transfer fee.

The Nou Camp club were thought to be leading suitors Arsenal and Liverpool for the playmaker.
It was understood a £13.3million bid would be required to trigger the 28-year-old’s release clause.

But reports from Spanish newspaper Sport today claim that his clause is closer to £17.7m - and that Barca are unwilling to go that high.
The Liga champions have stockpiled cash reserves over the summer months as they couldn’t sign players due to a FIFA embargo.

But reports from Spanish newspaper Sport today claim that his clause is closer to £17.7m - and that Barca are unwilling to go that high.
The Liga champions have stockpiled cash reserves over the summer months as they couldn’t sign players due to a FIFA embargo.

Once those restrictions are lifted in January, however, the club are expected to spend big in revamping the squad.
And Spaniard Nolito, who has scored five goals for his club already this season, was reportedly deemed a top target of manager Luis Enrique.
The player would have replaced Pedro - sold to Chelsea in a £21.4m deal back in August - had he come into the squad.
But Barca’s reported reluctance to meet that improved contract clause means Arsenal and Liverpool are free to battle it out for Nolito’s services.