Barcelona Transfer News: Lionel Messi Rumours Swirl, Adama Traore Interest Rises

The simplest mention of Lionel Messi's name often kick-starts a whirlwind of speculation around the Barcelona star. This time, Cesc Fabregas' "wish" to play alongside Messi at Chelsea has fired up the rumour mill once more.

According to James Dickenson of the Daily Express, Messi is "considering a summer move to Chelsea after becoming embroiled in a cash dispute" with the Blaugrana. He includes this snippet of information in an article which also highlights Fabregas' willingness to play alongside the 27-year-old icon:

"

I wish! Why not? I'd love that to happen. I'd be all for it. As a Barca man, I believe that Messi deserves to retire at Barca for all that he has given the club. He is a legend that has changed Barca history. But, as his team-mate and friend, without doubt I'd love to have Leo by my side. This season Barca are Messi and ten others. Messi has saved his team on many occasions.

"

Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images

A potential £200 million deal is now doing the rounds, with the Daily Telegraph among those to pick up on what remains an extremely unlikely transfer story. Messi continues to lead Barcelona toward success, scoring 23 goals and providing nine assists in 22 performances this season, per WhoScored.com. He is an icon, a player whom Barca have built their identity on across the past decade.

It will take more than praise from an individual deemed unworthy of a place in manager Luis Enrique's squad to change that.

Dickenson suggests Chelsea sponsors Adidas are willing to help pay for Messi's services, but this kind of mega-agreement is unprecedented. Jose Mourinho's side are among the few who could afford Messi, but UEFA's Financial Fair Play guidelines would need to be adhered to.

Just a matter of weeks ago, Messi admitted he wishes to stay with Barca "forever," per Ole (h/t the Daily Express).

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Away from hyperbole, youngster Adama Traore continues to generate interest from Premier League clubs. Tottenham have reportedly sent scouts to watch the winger, as reported by Sami Mokbel of the Mail Online. Manager Mauricio Pochettino is a keen developer of youth—highlighted by the presence of Harry Kane, Ryan Mason and Nabil Bentaleb in his Spurs side—and is said to be scouting Spain for extra talent.

He may need to be quick, however, as Jamie Sanderson of Metro believes Everton "look set to sign" Traore. Sanderson, whose report is substantiated by Spanish outlet Fichajes.net's original article, indicates the Toffees will begin talks "immediately" to capture the 18-year-old starlet. Liverpool's interest is also outlined.

Traore averages a goal every 688 minutes for Barca B, netting twice in 16 Segunda Division appearances, per Transfermarkt.com. He is a pacey, confident deliverer of the ball and has provided eight assists in this time.

His qualities are highlighted below:

There's no doubt Traore can grow into a useful player at the top level. It may be beneficial for him to develop his game in the Premier League, where he can test himself against a far more physical style. Gerard Deulofeu enjoyed a positive experience with Everton while on loan last season, suggesting Roberto Martinez's men might get the nod.

Transfer rumours surrounding Barca are set to ramp up as the January window approaches. Messi will no doubt be at the centre of many stories, while the actual business goes on around him.