Transfer Talk: Laporta claims 'Barca are back' amid Haaland pursuit

Barcelona president Joan Laporta claimed "anything is possible" when asked directly about the potential signing of Erling Haaland.

He then declared the Catalan giants are "back as big players" in the January transfer window.

Barca recently completed the £46million signing of Ferran Torres from Manchester City and they will not be stopping there.

The Blaugrana are thought to be among several clubs chasing Borussia Dortmund star Haaland, though their recent financial crisis suggested they would struggle to compete with the Norwegian’s other suitors.

But the club now look to be able to spend again after securing a bank loan and Laporta claims they have returned as a financial juggernaut.

Asked specifically at Torres’ unveiling about whether Haaland is another realistic target, Laporta said: "We’re working to build a top team. 

"Everything is possible if we do things well and I’m sure we will.

"Top players are open to joining Barca. We’re definitely recovering our status.

"Everybody in the world should get ready, as we are back as big players in the market."

The comments come amid reports that the Barca chief recently met with Haaland’s agent Mino Raiola, who also represents Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba.

But despite Laporta's bold words, the Mirror say they must secure outgoings from the club before they can register new players.

Meanwhile, Spanish publication AS claim that a deal for Barca to sign Juventus striker Alvaro Morata on loan until the end of the season is on the brink of being completed.

In other news

Lille have told Newcastle that their Dutch centre-back Sven Botman is not for sale after the clubs discussed a £30m move, according to the Telegraph.

The Mail say the Magpies are also set to go head-to-head with Lyon to sign Zenit Saint Petersburg striker Sardar Azmoun.

West Ham have held talks to sign Flamengo striker Gabriel Barbosa, with Sky Sports claiming the Brazilian is one of a number of attacking options for the Hammers in January. 

Fabrizio Romano says Rangers right-back Nathan Patterson is set for a medical at Everton after agreeing personal terms ahead of a £12m move.