Barcelona set to face competition for the signing of a Premier League star whose contract is expiring.

Barcelona’s financial constraints may force them to explore the market for out of contract players this summer, and Wilfried Zaha is among their top targets for a left-winger. However, reports suggest that the Catalans may face stiff competition from Chelsea, who are currently leading the race to sign the Crystal Palace winger. Barcelona may not be able to match Chelsea’s financial offer, so they could only hope that Zaha is willing to take a pay cut to join them.

Zaha is expected to leave Crystal Palace this summer, and Barcelona has reportedly shown interest in him alongside Lionel Messi, Ilkay Gundogan, and Inigo Martinez, who are also out of contract this summer. The Ivorian winger would provide the much-needed depth to Barcelona’s attack, which has struggled to find consistency this season.

However, according to reports in the Daily Mail, Chelsea is in pole position to sign Zaha as they look to keep him in London. The Blues have already secured a top-four finish in the Premier League and are set to compete in the Champions League next season, which could be a tempting proposition for Zaha.

The financial aspect of the deal could also prove to be a stumbling block for Barcelona, who may not be able to match Chelsea’s offer. As a result, the Catalans may have to rely on the player’s willingness to take a pay cut if they are to have any chance of securing his services.

With Barcelona set to be limited in their ability to pay transfer fees, the free-agent market could provide them with a lifeline this summer. However, competition for the best out of contract players is likely to be fierce, and Barcelona will need to move quickly if they are to have any chance of signing their top targets.