Barcelona must act quickly to land long-term target Malcom.

The exciting Corinthians attacker was watched in junior action by Barca scouts last season before, at 17, breaking into the first team this term.

Malcom's exciting progress has sparked the interest of Chelsea, which are prepared to bid for him in January.

The Blues' move will kick Barca into action, says Sport, though any immediate deal could be scuppered if their appeal against a 2015 transfer ban is rejected.

Barca expect to learn before Thursday if their appeal has been successful.

Chelsea, meanwhile, are mooted to be willing to pay €25 MILLION for the 17 year-old Malcom.