Barca ponder shock swoop for Kuyt; Alex Teixeira welcomes Chelsea interest

Barca ponder shock swoop for Kuyt

Champions League holders Barcelona are considering a shock move for Feyenoord captain Dirk Kuyt, according to Sport.

The Catalans aim to sign a forward in the January transfer window who would act as back-up for the starting trio, and they do not plan to spend a lot of money on the new recruit.

And while coach Luis Enrique insists on luring Nolito back to Camp Nou, the club management would prefer to see an experienced centre forward join the ranks instead.

As a result, Barcelona are seriously thinking about former Liverpool star Dirk Kuyt, who is enjoying a very successful spell with Feyenoord.

The 35-year-old has scored amazing 10 goals in as many Eredivisie appearances this term and the Catalans want to make him the ‘next Larsson’.

At the same time, Barcelona are keeping close tabs on former AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato, who will be available for sale in the January window.

Alex Teixeira welcomes Chelsea interest

Shakhtar Donetsk star Alex Teixeira has made it clear that he would be delighted to join Chelsea in the January window.

The Blues are believed to be weighing up a winter move for the 25-year-old footballer, who has been in stunning form this season.

Teixeira has scored impressive 16 goals in 11 league matches this term despite operating in midfield and it is hardly surprising that Europe’s top sides are after his services.

And having stayed to help the team after Luiz Adriano and Douglas Costa both left in the summer, the Brazilian is now ready for a big club move.

“There are still speculations, but I am very happy that a club like Chelsea are interested in my services,” Teixeira told O Globo.

“It would be great to play in the Premier League and, if the transfer takes place in January, it would be excellent.”

The attacking midfielder, who can also operate on either wing, has scored a total of 61 goals in 142 league appearances for Shaktar Donetsk.

Gaitan wants Benfica exit

Argentine winger Nicolas Gaitan still hopes to leave Benfica for a top club, according to O Jogo.

In spite of the serious interest in his services, there have been no top clubs willing to match his €35 million release clause.

Al Ahli were prepared to meet Benfica’s asking price, but it was Gaitan who rejected the move as he didn’t want to leave Europe.

And while the two sides are currently in talks over a new deal for the Argentina international, the player still hopes to leave at the earliest opportunity.

Benfica would also be prepared to cash in on their prized asset and thus improve the club’s financial situation, but it remains to be seen whether the transfer will materialise in January.

The Eagles slipped to eighth in the Primeira Liga standings as they were hammered at home by Sporting, but they are 1/4 to return to winning ways in tonight’s match against Tondela.

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