Barcelona to bid for Mathieu

Catalan daily newspaper Sport has learned that Barcelona are stepping up their efforts to sign French defender Jeremy Mathieu from Valencia.

Following the long deliberation, the club officials have decided to make a move on the Frenchman as they search for a long-term successor to Carles Puyol.

And while Valencia have referred the Catalans to the player’s €20 million release clause, it is believed los Che could lower their asking price once they receive an official offer for Mathieu’s services.

According to Sport, Barcelona are set to present the first official proposal in the coming days as they hope to complete the signing as soon as possible.

Despite arriving at Mestalla as a left-back, Mathieu has impressed in a centre-back role and now even prefers playing in the heart of defence.

The impressive technical qualities are another reason why Barcelona sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta is determined to lure the 30-year-old to Camp Nou.