Barcelona chiefs are convinced they're a step closer from landing Manchester City defender Eric Garcia.

The former La Masia trainee is a priority target for Barca this summer and encouragement has already been offered as he stalls over new contract talks.

Mundo Deportivo says Barca have now been further boosted with news that City have had an offer for Nathan Ake accepted by Bournemouth. There's a confidence that City's decision to move for Ake will unsettle Garcia.

Barca are willing to pay cash this summer for the youngster - though not at his current valuation of €16m.

Blaugrana president Josep Maria Bartomeu aims to talk down City's assessment, particulary given they lost Garcia for nothing three years ago.