Barcelona keep tabs on Payet

Champions League holders Barcelona are hot on the trail of West Ham hotshot Dimitri Payet, El Mundo Deportivo can reveal.

The Catalans have been following the attacking midfielder during his time with Lille and Marseille, and they have had scouts watch him in action this season as well.

Barcelona officials have been impressed with Payet’s performances in his maiden Premier League campaign and he is one of the players on their hit-list.

It remains to be seen whether the Catalans will make their interest concrete ahead of the summer transfer window, but chances are the 29-year-old will not be available on the cheap.

Payet is widely regarded as one of the main contenders for Player of the Year award, having managed 9 goals and 8 assists in 25 Premier League appearances.

The highly rated footballer has also played his way back into the France national team and largely impressed in March friendlies.