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Barcelona interest in Darijo Srna confirmed by Shakhtar Donetsk

Shakhtar Donetsk coach Paulo Fonseca has said that he is aware of Barcelona's interest in Darijo Srna.

The former Croatia international, 34, is one of a number of players to have been linked with Barca as they reportedly look to bolster their options at right-back in January.

Hector Bellerin and Joao Cancelo have also been mentioned as potential targets, but the former has signed a new contract with Arsenal and the latter is thought to be out of Barca's price range at the moment.

"I know of the interest," Fonseca confirmed ahead of his side's Europa League game against Braga in Portugal.

"It is not for me to make this decision. We know the importance of Srna to our team and we also know of his importance to the club. He's spent many years with us, though, and I sincerely hope he doesn't go."

Shakhtar owner Rinat Akhmetov said earlier this year that he would not stand in Srna's way if Barca came calling.

"If Darijo makes such a decision [to go], I will be on his side," Akhmetov said. "He deserves that the club should treat him generously.

"He is a great person and a great captain who gave his all for Shakhtar. We'll make sure that we are proud of our decision. It will be as Darijo wishes."

Reports of Barca's interest in signing a right-back surfaced after Aleix Vidal fell out of favour, leaving converted midfielder Sergi Roberto as the only option for the position.

After playing in the shock 2-1 loss to Alaves in September, Vidal was cast aside, although he has returned to action recently.

The former Sevilla player featured in the Copa del Rey draw with Hercules and impressed in this week's 4-0 Champions League win against Borussia Monchengladbach, earning the praise of Luis Enrique.

The player himself has said he will give 1,000 percent to stay at the club amid the stories linking Barca with a move for Srna.