Barcelona and Manchester City are reportedly preparing to do battle for the signature of Arsenal striker Alexandre Lacazette.

The former Lyon man has forced his way back into the Gunners team in recent weeks but is still expected to leave when his contract expires in 2022.

Atletico Madrid and Roma were both linked with a swoop for Lacazette in the summer, although Arsenal are rumoured to be working on a new short-term extension.

However, with the 30-year-old supposedly after a long-term contract, Fichajes claims that Man City and Barcelona will lock horns for Lacazette's signature next summer.

Xavi is believed to be seeking attacking reinforcements at Camp Nou amid his side's injury woes, while Man City are yet to properly replace Sergio Aguero.

Lacazette has just three goals to his name from 10 appearances this season, one of which has come in the Premier League. body check tags ::