Former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Paulinho confirms he has received an offer from Barcelona, but their first choice remains Marco Verratti.
Paulinho has rebuilt his career in China with Guangzhou Evergrande after a disappointing spell with Tottenham, winning two League titles and an AFC Champions League, while regaining his place in the Brazil squad.
However, Mundo Deportivo notes the 28-year-old is Barca’s fallback in the event they cannot strike a deal for Verratti, who is a “priority”.
“There was contact with my representative and there was an offer,” Paulinho told Globo Esporte.
“I’m very happy with my life and career at the moment and it’s difficult to make a decision.
“I have to weigh up many things before making a decision, first of all my wife, plus I’m living very well in China.
“We like the place, the people, fighting for the League title, the Asian Champions League.
“I’m happy that a great team like Barcelona are interested in me, it’s something that’s priceless.
“I don’t have a deadline to respond to them, I speak to my agent every day but Barca and my club would have to reach an agreement.”
