PSG defender Marquinhos flattered by Barcelona's interest

Marquinhos flattered by Barcelona interest

Paris Saint-Germain’s Brazilian defender Marquinhos has said that he is flattered after Barcelona have showed an interest in securing his. With long-serving Carles Puyol already leaving the Spanish giants, it is clear that they need a center back to strengthen their defence.

Speaking to Le Parisien, Marquinhos said, "If Barca are so interested in me, this is something that makes me very satisfied,"

"It's flattering as Barcelona are a club that have won all competitions in the world. But that aside, I can't say anything else about Barca."

The Brazilian is focused on PSG and is relishing the competition for places in the first XI, which will be more intense when Luiz finalises his transfer.

"I think David Luiz made a good choice going to PSG,"

"Now when I see the players that are coming, I realise it will be difficult. I'll work even harder.

"I have a contract until June 2018. Let's see, anyway, my agent will talk with the club about my future as this season is very important to me."

Last summer Paris Saint-Germain beat Barcelona for the signature of Marquinhos by paying Italian giants AS Roma €31.4 million in the process. With PSG already having secured the signing David Luiz from Chelsea for a record fee for a defender, it might tempt them to sell Marquinhos to Barcelona in order to balance the books and avoid any financial ramifications by UEFA.