Rumors: Barcelona to sign Van Dijk, Thiago wants to return and Abel Ruiz is in demand

Barcelona to beat Liverpool to Van Dijk

Today’s rumors start in the Premier League, with Barcelona apparently keen on Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk, according to the Mirror.

Barca have scouted the defender and are mulling over a move, although Van Dijk is expected to fetch around £50 million.

However, Southampton would much rather sell the unsettled Dutchman abroad, and to Barcelona, rather than a Premier League rival such as Liverpool.

Thiago wants Barcelona return?

Over at Don Balon, the talk is that Thiago Alcantara has offered himself to Barcelona as he is keen to leave Bayern Munich.

Apparently Thiago has decided it is time to come home, and wants to return to Camp Nou, which would also put an end to the club’s pursuit of Philippe Coutinho.

Barca scout Bayer Leverkusen trio

Meanwhile, Sport report that Robert Fernandez has been back to Germany to scout Jonathan Tah, Leon Bailey and Julian Brandt.

Defender Tah is believed to be available for around €25 million but is also wanted by several Premier League clubs.

Wingers Brandt and Bailey are also interesting Barca, although Leverkusen apparently will refuse to sell Brandt who they are keen to keep.

Abel Ruiz is in demand

And finally, it seems that Abel Ruiz is a wanted man with Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City all following Barca’s talented teen.

According to the Mirror, all three clubs are well aware he has a release clause of just £3 million and Arsenal and Chelsea have already been in touch with his representatives.

Ruiz has said recently he wants to stay at Barca, but the club may want to get him to sign a new and improved deal to ward off interest from elsewhere.