Rumour: Barcelona strike deal for Cuadrado to dash Manchester United & Liverpool's hopes

Juan Cuadrado: attracting a lot of attention from the “big boys”

Liverpool and Manchester United have been dealt a blow in their hopes of landing Fiorentina winger Juan Cuadrado in the summer after Mundo Deportivo reported that the Colombian has agreed a deal in principle to sign for Barcelona at the end of the season.

Liverpool were believed to be leading the chase for Cuadrado as they look to increase their attacking options ahead of next season, with Brendan Rodgers have identified the Colombian as his number one priority for a summer spend that will also target improving his defence.

However, they have been dealt a blow as reports have emerged that Barcelona have made an offer to the player to join them in the summer, having had their ban on transfers suspending pending an appeal.

UEFA had issued a year long ban on the Catalan club on registering new players after they had been found guilty of wrongdoings in the signings of under age players, but an appeal has suspended that until further investigation has been carried out.

This has allowed Barca to continue with their own summer recruitment drive, with Marc-Andre Ter Stegen set to arrive at Camp Nou from Borussia Monchengladbach, while they want Cuadrado in as well to boost their squad after a season without silverware.

Any move for the Colombian could have an effect on long-term Liverpool target Cristian Tello however, as he may push for a move away should he fall further down the pecking order.