Barcelona are ready to move for AC Milan defender Thiago Silva for next season.

El Mundo Deporitvo says Thiago Silva would already be a Barca player if not for management deciding to focus on strengthening their midfield in the summer with the deals for Cesc Fabregas and Alexis Sanchez.

Thiago Silva has since signed a new deal with Milan, but that won't put off Barca.

Barca president Sandro Rosell has set aside €45 million to spend every summer and defence will be the priority next year with Carlos Puyol turning 34.

Former Barca defender Alberto Boita, now impressing at Sporting Gijon, is also being watched.