Barcelona were reportedly 'in direct contact' with Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba during the summer.

Pogba was strongly linked with Barca during the summer transfer window, with the Catalan giants believed to be desperate to bring the 25-year-old to Camp Nou.

The 2018 World Cup winner ultimately stayed at Old Trafford, however, and has scored twice in four Premier League appearances at the start of the 2018-19 campaign.

The France international's long-term future with the 20-time English champions is far from secure though, and he recently addressed the Barcelona rumours with talk of a possible departure.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the Spanish outfit spoke directly with Pogba during the summer, and they are hopeful of pushing through a deal in the January transfer window.

Last week, it was reported that United boss Jose Mourinho and Pogba have called a truce which will see the latter remain at Old Trafford until at least the end of the season.

Pogba is currently on international duty with the French national team.