Paris Saint-Germain 'ask Barcelona's permission to speak with Ousmane Dembele'

Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly requested permission to speak with Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele.

Having entered the final 12 months of his current deal, Dembele's Barcelona future is shrouded in uncertainty, amid interest from PSG.

The Parisians are looking to bolster a forward line that could lose the services of Kylian Mbappe, who continues to be linked with a move away.

They are prepared to take advantage of a €50m (£43m) release clause in Dembele's contract, which will automatically increase to €100m (£86m) on August 1.

The La Liga champions would only receive half of the fee, with the other half going to Dembele due to a clause in the player's contract.

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According to Cadena SER, PSG have formally asked Barcelona for permission to speak to Dembele over a potential move.

The Catalan giants have made it clear that they are reluctant to sell the Frenchman, but are pessimistic about their chances of retaining his services.

Barcelona boss Xavi and the club's director of football Mateu Alemany are trying to convince the 26-year-old to stay put.

Dembele has been in negotiations over a new Barcelona contract, but talks have stalled due to the player's financial demands.

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Due to the club's economic situation, they are unable to compete financially with PSG, who are prepared to better Barcelona's contract offer.

Dembele was a key part of a Barcelona side that lifted the La Liga trophy last season, scoring five goals and providing seven assists in 25 league appearances.

The winger is currently with his teammates in the USA, and he warmed up for the new campaign with a goal against Real Madrid on Saturday.

Dembele gave his side a 15th-minute lead in Arlington, before late strikes from Fermin Lopez and Ferran Torres wrapped up a comfortable 3-0 victory.