Ajax defender emerges as Barcelona target

Barcelona are considering a summer move for Ajax left-back Nicolas Tagliafico, with the Blaugrana prepared to cash in on Junior Firpo, reports Mundo Deportivo. 

Firpo has looked out of his depth for the LaLiga champions when called upon, first under Ernesto Valverde and more recently under Quique Setien, who worked with the left-back during their time together with Real Betis. 

Setien's appointment earlier this year provided Firpo with a second chance to showcase his talents to the Barcelona hierarchy, yet the club are prepared to listen to offers for the former Spain U21 international. 

Serie A pair Roma and Inter Milan are believed to have enquired about Firpo and if Barcelona do sell for a suitable fee, then they will turn their attention to Tagliafico to boost their defence. 

Ajax are believed to have blocked the Argentine's departure last summer following the departure of Frenkie de Jong to Barcelona, but their stance has since softened. 

That said, Ajax are under no pressure to sell the left-back, who has been linked with a move to Chelsea, and may demand upwards of £30m for Tagliafico, who features in the WhoScored Champions League team of the season so far.