Massive 50 millon offer for Paulinho to return to Chinese Super League

Barcelona are paying close attention to Paulinho's immediate future as it could change their transfer plans. The midfielder's exit is a very real possibility after the club admitted that there's an offer from a Chinese Super League team for him. The offer is €50m plus bonuses and the player is willing to accept a move back to Asian football. His exit would allow Barça to adjust their strategy for this summer window.

Paulinho's agent was in Barcelona a few days ago to talk about various subjects including the possibility of a transfer away. The club asked for proof of the offer and in the last few hours it's been confirmed that there's more than just interest from one Chinese team. At the moment, Barcelona are waiting for all the official information before they make a definitive decision, although the club believe it's a good offer and would allow the player to leave. The coach, Ernesto Valverde, knows about this and has given his blessing for the transfer as long as he's adequately replaced.

And that's the good part when it comes to Barcelona's planning. If Paulinho leaves for that price, Barça will have enough money to bring in a top quality midfielder to replace him. And the obvious option is to bring a fine passer of the ball into the squad to help fill the void left by Andres Iniesta. Valverde wants a ball playing midfielder. There aren't many options available who fit the required level at Barcelona.

Paulinho's agent also offered Chelsea's Brazilian wide man, Willian, to Barcelona. He's a player the coaching staff like a lot but who isn't a priority at the moment. Valverde wants Dembele to fulfil his potential and for this reason the coach is looking for a more well rounded midfielder instead.

At Barcelona they are relatively calm because they have time to react. The Chinese market closes on the 11th July so Paulinho's transfer should be agreed next week. From there, big decisions need to be made about the club's future. At the moment the club has signed Arthur and Lenglet - both will be officially announced very soon - but they still need to secure their main target for this summer. Paulinho's exit will be key to getting the best midfielder available. In the next few days everything should become clearer.