Barcelona and Raheem Sterling want to see a deal struck in January.

Via Le 10 Sport, Sport says Barca are in contact with the unsettled Manchester City attacker ahead of the winter transfer window.

Sterling has spoken openly about the prospect of leaving - and for abroad - in recent weeks.

Barca are keen, though do not have the finances available to buy the England international in January.

Instead, Barca president Joan Laporta has informed City - via trusted intermediaries - that they wish to take Sterling on a six-month loan with an option to buy. Given the Catalans' delicate finances, the chances of splashing out big in January is unlikely.

However, Barca could be forced to seek a new winger addition as new contract talks stall with Ousmane Dembele. The France international's current contract expires at the end of the season.

Sterling, meanwhile, has battled to find a place in manager Pep Guardiola's starting XI this season.

- updated October 20