Luis Suarez to Barcelona: Catalan giants reportedly set to bid £80m for Suarez this week

Formal talks for controversial forward said to be about to start

Barcelona are set to open formal talks for the signature of Luis Suarez this week, according to reports.

It is understood that the Catalan club believe they already have a deal in place in principle with Suarez and his representatives, but will now have to match Liverpool's £80m valuation of the player.

Liverpool are thought to be interested in Barcelona's Alexis Sanchez although the Chilean is understood to be keen to spend one more year in Catalonia, also a blow to suitors Arsenal, Manchester United and Juventus.

Real Madrid are also thought to be interested in Suarez, although are said to be keen to first pursue a deal for Radamel Falcao, with the controversial Uruguayan their second choice.

Meanwhile Liverpool are thought to be pressing ahead with deals for Southampton's Adam Lallana, Benfica's Lazar Markovic and Lille's Divock Origi - Tottenham have reportedly made a late move to sign the Belgian striker but he is expected to sign for Liverpool for £9.8m.