Liverpool and Barcelona target Luciano Vietto: Villarreal to increase striker's release clause

Villarreal are expected to meet with Luciano Vietto's agent in the coming weeks to increase the striker's €20m release clause amid increasing interest from a number of big European clubs in securing his services this summer, reports in Spain claimed.

After scoring 20 goals in all competitions in his debut season at Villarreal, his agent Jorge Cyterszpiler revealed earlier in March that both Liverpool and Real Madrid were ready to battle for his services.

"We know that a lot of big clubs are watching Luciano Vietto. There is a lot of competition for him. He could sign for Liverpool, we know that he is admired by the Reds, as well as Real Madrid and two Bundesliga clubs. I think he could leave Villarreal in the summer," his agent admitted.

Later reports claimed Atletico Madrid and Barcelona have also joined the race to secure his services, with Vietto increasing speculation over a move to the Camp Nou by revealing he dreams to play alongside Lionel Messi.

"Everyone dreams to play alongside Messi. It would be a dream, of course," the Argentine said. "Winning a Championship with Argentina would be my top dream. Then, also having the chance that a big European club felt attracted by me is another great goal.

"But I know that I should train me well and take care of my diet. I know that if I do all that, then every dream will be achieve, God willing."

After Villarreal president Fernando Roig claimed the striker's release clause was a low as €20m (£14.5m, $22.2m), the interest from big clubs has increased.

But Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo claims the La Liga side will meet with Vietto's agent in May to offer him a new deal that will see his release clause double to €40m to ward off any suitors.

Mundo Deportivo points out Barcelona have earmarked Vietto as a potential replacement for Pedro, who is expected to leave the Camp Nou at the end of the campaign after growing frustrated about his lack of playing time.

Meanwhile, manager Brendan Rodgers confirmed Liverpool will try to fill the void left by Luis Suarez's departure with a top goal scorer.