Barcelona have been linked with Arsenal star Mesut Ozil, as the Blaugrana reportedly see the German as an alternative transfer option should Paris Saint-Germain's Marco Verratti prove unattainable. Meanwhile, Real Madrid are said to have passed the Blaugrana in the race to land Brazilian wonderkid Vinicius Junior.

Axar.az reports according to Calciomercato.com, the Catalans have marked Verratti as the perfect midfielder to replace Andres Iniesta, who could leave the club in the near future. There are doubts whether the Catalans can land the Italian, however, and Ozil is said to be their back-up option.

The former Real Madrid star still hasn't renewed his contract in north London, leading to plenty of speculation.

Former U.S. international Jimmy Conrad understands why he and team-mate Alexis Sanchez are reluctant to sign new deals.

The 28-year-old has been a key player for the Gunners since his arrival in 2013, but Arsenal have dropped down the Premier League pecking order in the last few seasons and are in need of change.

The report says Arsenal will do what they can to keep Ozil around, but if he doesn't sign a new deal, they may be forced into a sale. His ability as a passer would fit well with Barcelona's approach to the game, although his past with Real would complicate a deal.