Mundo Deportivo reported that the Catalans have offered the 27-year-old striker a €35 million bid.

"Negotiations to sign David Villa have been opened," Barcelona vice-president Rafael Yuste told local radio.

"There are a lot of players who want to come here. That's great and it's something that people should know."

Real, on the other hand, have reportedly tabled a €42 million offer for the services of the Spanish international.

Los Merengues have already brought in Brazil schemer Kaka from AC Milan and are on the brink of signing Manchester United virtuoso Cristiano Ronaldo.