Barcelona 'track Brazilian midfielder Lucas Paqueta'

Barcelona are reportedly interested in signing Flamengo midfielder Lucas Paqueta.

Paqueta, 21, has a release clause of £45m inserted into his current contract, although it is understood that the midfielder is nearing a new deal with Flamengo that could see that price rise to £63m.

According to Sport, Barcelona are closely monitoring developments surrounding the midfielder, although the Spanish champions will face competition from a number of European clubs.

The left-footed attacking midfielder made his senior Brazil debut in Saturday's 2-0 win over the United States.

Paqueta has scored nine times and registered five assists in 53 appearances for Flamengo since breaking into the first team.