His transfer fee might be the only sticking point but the Blaugrana is hopeful of negotiating a reasonable price.

Thiago Alcantara left Barcelona five years ago but the Spaniard's return to Camp Nou has never been closer. In fact, Bild reports (as per Sport) that the Blaugrana has received a huge boost in their bid to re-sign him.

The German tabloid claims that the midfielder will be put up for sale, as new boss Niko Kovac wishes to reduce the number of players in his squad. The player has also informed the Bundesliga champion that he would like to return to his former club despite interest from Real Madrid.

Thiago was a key player for the German giant last season, having played 31 games. His return to Barcelona would be a welcomed one as he is a graduate of the club's famous academy, La Masia. 

The main reason for his exit from La Liga was the lack of playing time. Back then, Xavi, Iniesta, and Fabregas were all at the club and were ahead of him in the pecking order. None of those three midfielders are at Camp Nou anymore, meaning the 27-year-old could walk straight into Valverde's starting eleven.

The Spanish Primera Division champion has long been on the hunt for a midfield maestro. The Andre Gomes gamble backfired. Their Marco Verratti chase went up in flames and the acquisition of Philippe Coutinho looks to have filled the void left by Neymar,

Thiago, should he re-sign for the Blaugrana, would gravely boost Messi and Co. His price tag might be the sticking point, as Bayern Munich wants $81m for the Spaniard, but Barcelona is hopeful of landing him for a smaller fee.