Barcelona have been encouraged in their pursuit of Guangzhou Evergrande midfielder Paulinho.

Barca have been haggling over a price with Guangzhou for the Brazil international since before the end of last season.

The Sun reports the Chinese Super League (CSL) club could now be forced to sell after allegedly being caught up in the competition financial debt problems.

It's suggested Guangzhou can avoid punishment by selling Paulinho - and quickly. A deal with Barca for around €25m is now being mooted.

Guangzhou are said to be one of 13 CSL clubs that face having to repay major debts to comply with Asian Football Confederation regulations.