Barcelona are reportedly interested in strengthening central defence in the summer and had identified Mats Hummels as a potential target.
Hummels has attracted attention from a number of clubs over the course of the past few months for his performances with Borussia Dortmund.
Barca are reported as having scouted the 24-year-old across six games already this season and are considering making a move, with sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta reportedly having identified central defence as in need of strengthening.
Carles Puyol has just signed a new long-term contract, but has struggled with injury once more this term, whilst fourth choice centre-back Marc Bartra has been left on the bench at times in favour of trialling Alex Song in defence.
Barca face a barrier to signing Hummels, though, in his €30m valuation. With a move for Neymar still anticipated, it is seen that the Catalans will not be able to afford both players in the summer.
