Big-Money Buys on Barcelona's Radar

Barcelona's summer plans will have been halted by Thiago Silva's decision to ink a new contract with Paris Saint-Germain, as reported by Saj Chowdhury of BBC Sport.

Although the Spanish champions could enter the new season with the current squad, one or two big-money names remain linked to the club. A centre-back acquisition should be the focus of Gerardo Martino, especially with a potential deal for Silva dead in the water.

Which players are currently on the Camp Nou radar? Let's take a look at the individuals who could set Barcelona back a decent sum across the next year.

David Luiz, Chelsea

This rumour just got hot.

As reported by Sky Sports, Barcelona have made an official bid for David Luiz. The versatile Chelsea defender has seen his popularity rise dramatically in recent months with charismatic performances throughout the Europa League and Confederations Cup. He is likely to cost upwards of £30 million.

CNN journalist Tancredi Palmeri tweets La Blaugrana have offered Chelsea the same amount they tried to lure Marquinhos with. As reported by Football Italia, this was also around the £30 million mark.

Luiz would offer the Spanish club energetic cover in defence and the midfield. His ability to score outrageous goals has the potential to light up the Camp Nou in a way none of the current centre-backs do. But is the Chelsea favourite a liability?

Daniel Agger, Liverpool

While not as exciting or expensive as Luiz, Daniel Agger represents a smart purchase for Barcelona. The Liverpool centre-back would certainly fit in amongst the likes of Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique.

Andy Hunter of The Guardian reports Barca have made an approach to Per Steffensen, the Danish captain's agent:

"

Steffensen is understood to have been contacted by an agent claiming to represent the Spanish champions, rather than by Barcelona themselves, and Liverpool have not received any approaches for the Denmark international.

The Anfield club are unlikely to welcome a move for the influential 28-year-old, with Jamie Carragher having retired, Martin Skrtel's future in doubt and Sebastián Coates having failed to convince the manager Brendan Rodgers.

"

Antony Kastrinakis of The Sun suggests a £12 million fee would be involved. If Liverpool lose Skrtel, expect that price to rise.

Nahuel Guzman, Newell's Old Boys

Nahuel Guzman may be unknown to many European supporters, but the 27-year-old goalkeeper has continued to impress Gerardo Martino over the past season.

He forced his way into Newell's Old Boys, replacing previous No. 1 Sebastian Peratta with a string of dominant displays under Martino. His two penalty saves in the Copa Libertadores quarterfinal underlined a player who is ready to strut his stuff in Europe.

As reported by Yahoo! Eurosport, Tata has outlined Guzman as his ideal replacement for Victor Valdes, who is set to leave at the end of the coming season. Although Guzman is unlikely to cost heavily, his value will have skyrocketed over the last 12 months.

His age, combined with importance to Newell's, is likely to see a lofted fee put in place. If Tata desperately wants to reunite with his old colleague, the Argentinian club may also be able to eek a little more from the deal.

Which of these players should Barcelona pursue? Let me know in the comments section below and be sure to hit me up on Twitter:

Follow @Nakerman