Chelsea and Man Utd boost as Barcelona pull out of transfer race for Jovic over concerns he cannot play in tight spaces

BARCELONA have pulled out of the race for Manchester United and Chelsea target Luka Jovic, reports in Spain claim.

The 21-year-old striker is currently playing in the Bundesliga with Eintracht Frankfurt – on loan from Portuguese club Benfica – where he has netted 17 league goals in 27 matches.

Jovic’s goalscoring form caught the eye of Barca chiefs, who saw the Serbian international as a long-term replacement for hitman Luis Suarez.

However, Mundo Deportivo report the La Liga champions are set to end their interest in the Benfica owned player due to concerns about his ability to play in “tight areas”.

Scouts that have watched Jovic this season are said to have been impressed with his finishing ability.

But with stars such as Lionel Messi in the squad, qualities other than netting goals are needed.

Barca chiefs want a player able to run with the ball with good control, similar to Messi and Suarez, and the conclusion is that Jovic does not meet this requirement.

The news will be welcomed by Chelsea and United, who are believed to be monitoring the proflic centre-forward.

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Despite signing veteran Gonzalo Higuian on loan from Juventus in January, Chelsea bosses are still searching for a prolific No9.

United and Chelsea are also joined by Prem champions Man City in the race for Jovic – as SunSport revealed Etihad transfer boss Txiki Begiristain watched the Serbian in action last week.

City chief Begiristain watched Jovic score against parent club Benfica in the Europa League.

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