Lazio's Luiz Felipe responds to Barcelona speculation

Lazio defender Luiz Felipe has said that he is 'excited' by suggestions that Barcelona want to sign him but has insisted that he will "stay focused" on his current club.

Barca are thought to have identified the 23-year-old as a potential summer signing amid suggestions that Samuel Umtiti could leave the club ahead of the 2020-21 campaign.

A recent report claimed that Lazio would be prepared to sell the Brazilian if they received an offer in the region of €40m (£34m).

Felipe has said that he is flattered to be linked with Quique Setien's side but will not get "carried away" by the speculation surrounding his future.

"It excites me because it means I'm doing a good job and the big clubs are watching," Felipe told UOL. "But anyone who knows me, knows that I'm calm, and I don't get carried away too easily. I have to stay focused and do my best for Lazio, who have given me confidence and support from day one."

The centre-back has made 19 Serie A appearances during the 2019-20 campaign.