Barcelona confirm talks with Adrien Rabiot but deny breaching transfer regulations

Barcelona have denied breaching regulations in their attempts to sign Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Adrian Rabiot – but have confirmed two attempts to sign the Frenchman.

Rabiot’s current contract in the French capital expires at the end of the season and has rejected a number of offers to tie him down to a new deal.

The 23-year-old has been told he will not play for the club again until he signs a new deal with Barcelona heavily linked with a move by both the French and Catalan press.

The La Liga giants have now released a statement confirming they held talks with Rabiot last week but insist they have played within the rules, adding they are still to reach an agreement with the player.

READ MORE: MMA - Prove you’re a champ-champ! - Jones calls out Cormier

READ MORE: Australia 5 Oman 0: Socceroos enjoy serene Asian Cup warm-up

READ MORE: Serie A - Inter boss Spalletti demands focus from Nainggolan

“Barcelona wish to address stories published in France regarding the signing of players from Paris Saint Germain, and make clear that they have not breached any rule in this regard,” the club said.

“The only contact made was during the month of August and one week ago. In both cases, this contact was made with PSG's sporting management to show FC Barcelona's interest in player Adrien Rabiot.

“FC Barcelona have always wanted to work with the utmost transparency in their dealings with PSG and with any other club.

“FC Barcelona refute the existence of any type of agreement with PSG player Adrien Rabiot.”