Barcelona still hope to land Bayern's versatile star Alaba for free next year

Bayern's defender David Alaba remains on Barcelona's radar, Diario Sport confirms just a couple of days before the Champions League showdown between the two heavyweights.

The Catalans have long been following the versatile player's progress.

Yet they are financially unable to meet Bayern's asking price which is reportedly set at €65million.

Instead, Barca are planning to wait until Alaba's current deal with the club expires next summer to land him on a free transfer.

Even though the Austrian hasn't signed a new contract yet this strategy is labelled as 'risky'.

Bayern are set for the contract talks with Alaba as soon as the Champions League is over, Bild claimed last week.

Alaba is praised for his versatility as he has been used as a left-back, centre-back and central midfielder during his illustrious career.

The 28-year-old has scored two goals in 39 games this season.