Liverpool Boosted in Bid to Sign Barcelona's Talented Young Duo

Barcelona vice president Josep Bartomeu believes Cristian Tello and Martin Montoya's desire to consider their future amid Liverpool interest must be admired, but urged the pair to remain at the club.

Reports have claimed that Brendan Rodgers' side have already opened talks with full back Montoya over a potential January switch with his contract at the Nou Camp due to expire this summer.

Tello, who was persistently chased by the Reds during the summer before the winger signed a new deal, has also rekindled the Premier League club's interest after revealing a lack of first team opportunities may force him to reconsider his future at the end of the season.

Both players were critical of their peripheral roles in the Barcelona set up following the club's 1-0 defeat to Athletic Bilbao at the new San Mames on Saturday, further fuelling speculation that moves away from Cataluña may eventually be on the cards.

But while suggesting interest in the duo is genuine, vice president Bartomeu has urged both players to continue to fight for a startling berth in Gerardo Martino's side.

In response to speculation surrounding Tello and Montoya, Bartomeu told a press conference, according to El Mundo Deportivo. "Tello and Montoya could leave if they won't play more? We like their ambition. They should continue to fight."

Montoya, who is equally adept playing in both right and left back positions, can leave the club on a free transfer at the end of the season, but Liverpool, Inter Milan, Bayer Leverkusen and Juventus remain keen to secure a cut-price deal for the 22-year-old next month.

Tello meanwhile revealed earlier in the season he turned down the chance to move to Anfield during the summer transfer window, but is now having second thoughts having started just two games for Barcelona this season.

"I will wait and see how things go from here until the end of the season," the winger was quoted as saying by AS earlier this week. "If I do not play as much as I would like, I will think about leaving."