Football finance knowledgeable Kieran Maguire thinks Sir Jim Ratcliffe is eyeing Barcelona because the INEOS chief appears to accumulate Manchester United.

“Sir Jim Ratcliffe is looking for some sort of legacy in terms of investing in the football industry,” he instructed Football Insider.

“The French football market really isn’t big enough to make a global splash and therefore he has to look for an elite club to make his mark.

“Barcelona would be an alternative to Man United if he loses the current takeover bid.

“However, I think it would be very difficult to get past the current Socios model, which is membership driven.

“Secondly, from the perspective of the Catalan fans who own Barcelona, they could have doubts about an overseas owner taking charge.

“While it is unlikely, it is no doubt something he is exploring and given the financial challenges that Barcelona face, you can never say never.”