Barcelona intensify efforts to sign Gremio star Luan as back-up for the MSN
Luan is the chosen man to be Barcelona's fourth striker this season. Robert Fernandez is in Brazil following the Gremio forward at the Olympic Games, in which he is playing with Neymar. SPORT have learned that the sporting director has been watching him, including in his impressive 30 minute cameo against South Africa, and was present at Brazil's game against Iraq. Robert has met the footballer's people to start trying to close a deal, which is something Luis Enrique wants done by the end of the week.
Yes from Luan
The forward has already said yes to the deal. He is conscious his role at the club will be behind the best attacking trident on the planet. He is a fighter and has a competitive mentality, so won't throw in the towel in the battle for minutes. He is 22 and has room to grow. Barcelona think that with Luan they can give rest to Luis Suarez, while Denis Suarez does the same for Neymar and Munir for Messi.
Priority
The player has offers from other European clubs but has asked his agent to prioritise contact with Barcelona, even if he won't get as much game time there. Luan doesn't want to miss the Barcelona train, despite Bundesliga, Serie A and Premier League interest.
