Barcelona Transfer News: Dani Alves Contract Storm, Ander Herrera Cools Rumours

Barcelona have offered Dani Alves the "lowest possible" contract extension, according to his agent, Dinorah Santa Ana, speaking to Mundo Deportivo (h/t David Amoyal of GianlucaDiMarzio.com).

Santa Ana said that "Dani wants to stay [at Barcelona]" but appears unhappy with the Blaugrana's terms. She also spoke to Sport (h/t Dan Ripley of MailOnline) about ongoing talks with the Camp Nou club:

"

On Monday, I had a meeting with [director] Javier Bordas. On Wednesday I have had the second meeting. I have already received an offer [for a new contract], although I can't say if I am happy or not [with it]. There will be more meetings. They told me they will call me to arrange the next one.

"

David Ramos/Getty Images

Manchester United, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain are among the clubs said to be interested in the Brazilian right-back, per David McDonnell of the Mirror.

Alves joined Barca from Sevilla in 2008 and has played a key role in the club's success, making the full-back position his own. He is an ambitious attacker—sometimes at the expense of his defensive duties—and still ranks among Barca's most exciting players.

Questions are beginning to arise as to how long Alves, who is 31 years old, has left at the top level. However, Barcelona's current transfer ban, which stops them from signing anyone until January 2016, could work in his favour. Luis Enrique wouldn't be able to replace the Brazilian until midway through next season, so offering him extended terms makes sense.

Alex Livesey/Getty Images

Enrique will undoubtedly be looking at potential future signings, though. Simon Jones of MailOnline believes Ander Herrera's form at Manchester United "has not gone unnoticed at Barcelona," who have been scouting his progress.

The Spaniard is reportedly being eyed as a potential replacement for Xavi, but he recently revealed that he is happy with his progress at Old Trafford. Herrera spent much of the season confined to the bench but has enjoyed an excellent run of form over the past few weeks, capped by two goals in the recent 3-1 victory over Aston Villa.

Herrera is enjoying life in England, as reported by McDonnell:

"

I’m very happy. Even when I wasn’t playing I was also happy. I’m at Manchester United. I feel really lucky to be here. The manager has to decide who is playing or not, but we have to respect always the decision he makes. The manager wants the best for the team, the best for us and we have to follow him always.

It’s my dream to be here for a long time because I am in the right team, in the right league and in the right country. I feel very happy and want to stay at the club for many years. I feel I adapted quickly to this league and this country because I’m so comfortable here.

"

Kevin Palmer of the Sunday World doesn't think Barca have a chance of signing Herrera anytime soon:

Michael Regan/Getty Images

He could fit in at the Catalan club. Herrera's technical ability, temperament and commitment to the team suit Barca perfectly. He proved his talent in La Liga with Athletic Bilbao, but for now, United appear to have a gem on their hands.

Barca's initial thoughts should turn to Alves, a player who has provided them with commendable service over the years.