Paris Saint-Germain star Marco Verratti to train away from first team as he tries to force through move to Barcelona
Italian midfielder has had enough of Paris after five years and reports claim he has already agreed personal terms with Barcelona
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MARCO VERRATTI will train away from his Paris Saint-Germain team-mates as he bids to force through a move to Barcelona.
The midfielder is determined to leave France this summer for the Catalan giants - and is said to have already agreed personal terms with them.
And Spanish paper Marca claims the Italian will stage a "light rebellion" as he prepares to return to work from his summer holidays.
Verratti, 24, is set for showdown talks with the Ligue 1 side's chiefs after his summer break in the hope PSG allow him to move.
The Ligue 1 side start pre-season training this week and the midfielder, who signed a new five-year deal last summer, has decided he will not train with the squad and will work alone to make the point he wants out.
Barcelona are said to be ready to approach PSG imminently about a deal for Verratti, with president Josep Maria Bartomeu leading the talks.
New Barca boss Ernesto Valverde has identified Verratti as his main target as he looks to add more energy and dynamism in midfield next term.
Valverde has also enquired about Manchester United man Ander Herrera, but the former Athletic Bilbao man is happy at Old Trafford and not for sale.
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Marco Verratti factfile
- He was born in Pescara, Italy in 1992.
- The 24-year-old played for Manoppello, Manoppello Arabona and Pescara at youth level.
- Verratti played for Pescara from for four years after turning proffessional in 2008.
- He then joined Paris Saint-Germain in 2012, for a reported £10.5millon.
- Verratti represented Italy at U19s, U20s and at Under 21s level before playing for the seniors.
- The midfielder has won Ligue 1 four times
- Verratti is known for being a sharp, agile and technical midfielder.
After five years in Paris, Verratti wants a new challenge, but PSG chiefs are adamant the 24-year-old is not for sale.
The Spanish media outlet also claim Verratti has agreed personal terms with the La Liga giants months ago.
And now the midfielder wants to exit on good terms but is prepared to play hardball if his wish is not granted.
Last month Patrick Kluivert, who recently stepped down as PSG director of football, said Verratti won't be allowed to leave.
Kluivert told La Sexta: "I know the president very well and I also know that Verratti wants to go to Barcelona, but PSG will not let him leave.
"He renewed his contract last year and it will be very difficult (for Barca to sign him).";