Xavi's meeting with Alemany that cemented Barça's move for Ferran Torres

Barcelona are serious about Ferran Torres. They want to sign the Manchester City forward and he's keen to come to Camp Nou.

A lot of names have been linked with Barça in recent weeks but the former Valencia attacker is the one they want to strengthen the squad in January.

And not on loan, but on a permanent deal -- although that could be an initial loan with an obligation to make the deal permanent at a later date.

Barça made Ferran their No.1 objective after a meeting between coach Xavi Hernandez and sporting director Mateu Alemany hours before Xavi officially became coach.

Among other things, Xavi and Alemany spoke about how to strengthen the team. And that's where Ferran's name come up. Alemany revealed the possibility of signing the ex-Valencia player, buut he needed Xavi's opinion first.

The response from the Catalan coach couldn't have been clearer: if there's any chance of doing a deal, it must be explored until the very end.

Xavi would be delighted to have the Spain international in his squad. Remember Ferran is only 21 and is a regular in Luis Enrique's side.

Beyond his ability to unbalance a defence, he can play wide or through the middle, and is also able to contribute defensively and press dilligently.

Pending negotiations with City, what's clear is that everyone at Barça is agreed on Ferran. And that's important when it comes to making a financial effort as any deal wouldn't be less than 50 million euros.