Barcelona keeping tabs on Nigeria-eligible midfielder

The Blaugrana are looking to take a new shape amidst their financial struggles, and they could swoop in for the teenager this summer

Spanish giants Barcelona are monitoring Nigeria-eligible midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka's situation at Aston Villa, as they could swoop in for the youngster this summer.

Barcelona are currently in a debacle, as they are struggling to meet up with Laliga's financial rules. As such, the Blaugrana could let some of their top stars go. Frenkie de Jong has been linked with Manchester United, but nothing concrete has come out of those talks. Nonetheless, Barcelona are still looking to add more bodies to their squad.

According to Skysports, the Blaugrana are keeping tabs on Chukwuemeka, who has one year left on his contract at Villa, and they could swoop in for his signature if he refuses to stay at Villa Park.

The 18-year-old has spent his formative years at Villa Park, and he made his debut in May last year in his side's 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

Also, Chukwuemeka was crowned Aston Villa Academy player of the year two seasons ago. The youngster can operate in Central midfield and attacking positions as he is very fast on the ball. He could be a decent signing for Barcelona as they look to rebuild amidst financial constraints.

Chukwuemeka plays for the English youth teams, but according to FIFA rules, he is still eligible to play for Nigeria because of his parents.