Manchester City have told Barcelona to get serious about Ferran Torres.

Barca directors Ferran Reverter and Mateu Alemany were in Manchester last week for talks with City about transfer possibilities - including Torres.

Indeed, City manager Pep Guardiola acknowledged Barca's interest before last night's win at Aston Villa.

Sport says Barca are willing to cough up for Torres, but won't go higher than €40m for the Spain international.

However, such a stand has been dismissed by City, which are insisting the attacker will not leave for less than €80m.