Barcelona 'counting' on Adama Traore despite Liverpool approach

Barcelona B coach Gerard Lopez says he is counting on Adama Traore ahead of the new season after Liverpool reportedly made an approach for the winger.

According to Catalan radio station RAC 1, Liverpool representatives recently travelled to the Camp Nou to discuss a deal to bring the 19-year-old to Anfield on a season-long loan.

Traore made his Barcelona debut in 2013 but his path to the first team remains blocked thanks to Barcelona's embarrassment of riches in the attacking third. Manager Luis Enrique has also told the club's youngsters none of them will be promoted to the first team ahead of the 2015-16 season after last term's disappointing campaign that saw Barcelona B relegated to Spain's third tier.

Enrique's hard-line stance could work in Liverpool's favour with Brendan Rodgers reportedly keen to enlist the services of an exciting winger following Raheem Sterling's exit to Manchester City.

But Lopez, who was appointed head coach just last week, is hopeful the player will be around to help Barcelona B in their attempts to climb back into the Segunda Division. When asked about Liverpool's interest in Traore and his plans for the player, he told Mundo Deportivo: "I am counting on him."

Traore scored three goals and provided 14 assists in 37 appearances last season but was unable to help his side avoid the drop.

The Spain Under-19 international made his La Liga debut at the age of 17 in November 2013 and made his Champions League bow days later under the management of Gerardo Martino.

Liverpool have considerably bolstered their squad with the signings of James Milner, Danny Ings, Adam Bogdan, Joe Gomez, Roberto Firmino, Nathaniel Clyne and Christian Benteke this summer but could be in the market for another option out wide.