Southampton FC transfer news: Barcelona have reportedly stepped up their interest in midfielder Oriol Romeu

Barcelona have made contact about a move for Southampton midfielder Oriol Romeu, according to reports in Spain.

The holding midfielder has been heavily linked with a return to Barca, where he spent the majority of his formative years before moving to Chelsea in 2011.

It has been suggested that the Catalan club believe the 25-year-old can become a long-term replacement for Sergio Busquets in central midfield.

However, there has so far been no official approach for Romeu, who has been one of Southampton's most consistent performers this season.

But, according to Marca, Barca have now been in touch about a potential summer move, although it has been claimed that the contact has not been made directly with Southampton.

Romeu only signed a new long-term contract earlier this year so he will not come cheap but that may not put Barca off should they decide he is the man they need this summer.