Premier League heavyweights Liverpool are clear favourites to sign Lille midfielder Renato Sanches for the remainder of this summer’s transfer window. It was disclosed that the Reds have a clear run at Portuguese international Sanchesdue to the lack of financial strength from rivals Barcelona.

Spanish media portal MundoDeportivo revealed that Barcelona boss Ronald Koeman would like to add Lille midfielder Sanches to his first team squad but the much publicised financial constraint at the Nou Camp won’t allow that.

Barcelona are in trouble in terms of their finances and they have not been able to sign their new players. Dutchman Memphis Depay, Argentine international Sergio Aguero and the other new signings have not been registered as Barcelona have failed to meet up with the salary cap from La Liga. Koeman and his Barcelona players start their La Liga campaign against Real Sociedad.

Spanish giants Barcelona were not able to re-sign star man Lionel Messi this month as a result of the financial crisis at the club and the reigning Ballon d’Or recipient has moved to sign for French team Paris Saint Germain (PSG).

Barcelona manager Koeman wanted to sign Dutch international Georginio Wijnaldum on a free transfer this summer after he left Liverpool, but he was unable to win the race for him. Wijnaldum signed for PSG this summer. To this effect, Koeman is a bit light in midfield especially with the uncertainty over the future of IlaixMoriba who has one year left on his existing deal at the club. Koeman has targeted Sanches to boost his midfield options but he won’t be able to get his man.

The financial issues at Barcelona could help Liverpool to land Portuguese international Sanches. Lille are looking for at least €40m for the transfer of the player. He could replace the aforementioned Wijnaldum at Anfield.