Barcelona Reportedly Interested in Shock Dimitar Berbatov Move

In one of the most bizarre transfer stories of the season so far, Barcelona are reportedly expressing an interest in a move for Fulham striker Dimitar Berbatov.

With Lionel Messi sidelined for a lengthy period due to injury, manager Gerardo Martino is interested in short-term cover for the Argentine superstar and, remarkably, Berbatov's name is on the list, per Ben Jefferson of the Daily Express:

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Fulham's Dimitar Berbatov has emerged as a surprise target for Spanish giants Barcelona with manager Gerardo Martino intrigued by the technique and experience of the former Manchester United and Tottenham striker.

Reports in Spain suggest that Barca are contemplating adding short-term cover for the injured Lionel Messi and Berbatov's name is on the list.

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It is certainly news that will stun Premier League fans, who will not exactly have been convinced by the performances of Berbatov—and Fulham—this season. If Berbatov is indeed in the minds of the Spanish champions, it will no doubt be his experience that is appealing to Martino.

The 32-year-old has won Premier League titles with Manchester United during his time in England and is also out of contract at Craven Cottage at the end of the season, leading to the possibility of a reduced fee for the Bulgarian should Barcelona make their move.

Fulham may also be willing to rid themselves of Berbatov, who has been far from stellar this season. With Darren Bent waiting in the wings to adopt Fulham's role as No. 1 striker, the move could be best for business for all involved.

According to the superb statistics website Squawka, a quick look at Berbatov's performances make for grim reading in 2013/14. Squawka's performance awards system—which awards honors to the best and worst performers in each team every game—sees Berbatov getting six "worst" awards this season already.

Their performer score ratings have Steve Sidwell as the top performer for Fulham this campaign with 186 points. Berbatov has a disappointing score of -30.

Maybe the time is right for Berbatov and Fulham to go their separate ways. In the desperate battle for survival at the bottom of the division, a player like Berbatov is not exactly the type of player that will knuckle down for a battle.

And also, it would make for a remarkable transfer story should he be lured to play alongside the likes of Neymar, Messi and company.