Bellerin, Eriksen, Di Maria: The latest on Barça's potential summer signings

Barcelona are working hard to ensure Ernesto Valverde has the most competitive squad possible. There are various names on the table, some are gathering strength while others are losing ground. Here is how things stand at the moment...

UP

Bellerín (Arsenal):

"Interest from the best club in the world fills me with joy." That's what the right-back told SPORT in an exclusive interview. "Wenger continuing as Arsenal coach is good for a lot of players, but it doesn't change anything for me." Bellerin has spoken clearly. His dream is to return to the club he grew up at before moving to London. After making his name at Arsenal, he's ready to take the next step. Barça have no doubts and know he will fit straight in on the right side. He's the right-back for now and the future. The Catalan club will begin talks this week. There's no rush, but there is optimism. 

Dembélé (Dortmund):

"Ousmane would do us the world of good with his qualities." Samuel Umtiti wants his team-mate to strengthen Barça's attack. "I know the club is interested in his profile -- if he comes, I'll welcome him with open arms," the defender said. Dembele's biggest weapon is his dribbling. At Borussia Dortmund he's shown he can be electric, but he is only 20. He would arrive as someone who could play wide, but he'd perhaps have a secondary role. His arrival depends on what happens with Gerard Deulofeu. 

Eriksen (Tottenham)

Barça have good reports on the Tottenham midielder, who has a contract in London until 2020 but would be open to coming to Spain. "Barcelona are a great club and I don't think many players would say no to them. In the future I see myself at the top level. It could be with another club or it could be with Spurs," he told Ekstra Bladet. 

Di María (PSG)

According to Le Parisien, Barça want to sign the winger to replace Arda Turan. Messi has reportedly recommended they bring in his international team-mate, who can play in a range of attacking positions. The Argentine would add versatility and is capable of unsettling defences. In addition, PSG don't seem desperate to hold on to him. 

TREADING WATER

Verratti (PSG)

The preferred choice for midfield, but his link with PSG makes his signing very difficult because the French club are not a selling club. For now, Verratti has remained diplomatic. He has shown his appreciation at the interest from other clubs, but also said he's comfortable in Paris. Barça would need him to play ball to make the signing happen.  

Coutinho (Liverpool)

The Brazilian would be delighted to come to Barça. What's more, he's already rejected offers from the likes of PSG as he waits to see what happens with the Blaugrana's interest. The player has let Barça know he will come if a deal is struck with Liverpool. Coutinho has a great connection with Neymar on the pitch, although it's not clear if he would adapt to a midfield position in a 4-3-3. He's a player that enjoys playing with freedom and without defensive responsibilities.   

Davinson Sánchez (Ajax)

Barça are looking for a young centre-back and have good reports on the Colombian. Quick and good on the ball, he's interesting a number of European clubs. Barça know that and have communicated their interest to his people. It's an option which remains open. 

Azpilicueta (Chelsea)

Plan B to Bellerin. He's shown at Chelsea that he can be an important play in a title winning side. Versatile, his profile would fit in well at a Barcelona side looking to strengthen their team. 

DOWN

Deulofeu (Everton)

The winger is having doubts about returning to Barça. "It will be a busy summer in my case. I will have to choose the best option," he said from the Spain camp. Deulofeu is not clear whether he will have an important role at the club behind the MSN and wants to play regular football.  

Mbappe (Monaco)

The sensation of the season is close to Madrid. Los Blancos will offer 135 million euros and everything suggests he will be this summer's Galactico signing. Madrid are moving to add youth to their team, despite the great season they've had. Mbappe is a player that was already close to Madrid when he was a kid and Cristiano Ronaldo's one of his idols. This season he was the star of Monaco's run to the semi-finals of the Champions League. 

Cancelo (Valencia)

The Portuguese full-back has falled off Barça's wishlist, despite being a player well liked by Robert Fernandez. His character has led to doubts, as has his lack of form and minutes at Valencia at the end of the season.