Transfer ALERT! Barcelona hoping to beat Manchester City and Liverpool in race for Borussia Dortmund star Ousmane Dembele

Barcelona are ready to step up their pursuit of Liverpool and Manchester City target Ousmane Dembele.

The 20-year-old is one of the most sought-after youngsters in world football after a superb first season at Borussia Dortmund.

The Frenchman joined the German giants from Rennes last summer and ended his debut Bundesliga campaign with six goals in 32 outings.

But, despite being under contract until 2021, there are rumours he may move on again this summer in a big-money switch.

City and Liverpool have been linked with the attacking midfielder since he was at Rennes while Tottenham have also held talks with him in the past.

But, according to reports in France, it is Barca who are currently the club most likely to prise him away from Dortmund.

It has been reported that the Spanish club will ramp up their bid to sign him once he returns from holiday and his agent Moussa Sissoko remained coy on Dembele's future.

He said: "Ousmane is currently on holiday and we will discuss the situation together when he returns.

"I do not want to discuss everything that could be said on the future of Ousmane.

"We know that he is the subject of interest from big European clubs and that is sort of logical owing to his performances."