Barcelona News - Reports from Spain suggest Barcelona Star Lionel Messi is worried about team-mate which might not have what it takes to succeed at the Nou Camp.

Paulinho joined the Spanish giants from Chinese Super League outfit Guangzhou Evergrande in a surprise £35.5m (€40m) deal.

But he defied his critics early on as he nailed down a starting spot in Ernesto Valverde’s side.

Paulinho’s performances have dropped off as the campaign has gone on, particularly since the turn of the year.

And the latest reports from Spain suggest Barcelona team-mate Messi is worried the Brazilian might not have what it takes to succeed at the Nou Camp.

According to Diario Gol, Messi has taken note of Paulinho’s drop off in form.

And he’s said to be particularly concerned by the midfielder’s slowness on the ball and perennial sideways passing.

Messi has apparently ‘raised the alarm bells’ at Barcelona having previously welcomed Paulinho to the club.

And it’s claimed he believes the 29-year-old could repeat Turan’s disappointing stint in Catalunya.

Philippe Coutinho’s arrival at Barcelona has also had an impact on Paulinho’s status.

And Paulinho is no longer said to be one of the untouchables in Valverde’s squad.

Valverde has attempted to end Paulinho’s slump by handing him a much-needed rest.

But the former Tottenham flop may be forced to play his way out of it with a congested run of fixtures still to come.

Paulinho joined the Spanish giants from Chinese Super League outfit Guangzhou Evergrande in a surprise £35.5m (€40m) deal.

But he defied his critics early on as he nailed down a starting spot in Ernesto Valverde’s side.

Paulinho’s performances have dropped off as the campaign has gone on, particularly since the turn of the year.

And the latest reports from Spain suggest Barcelona team-mate Messi is worried the Brazilian might not have what it takes to succeed at the Nou Camp.

According to Diario Gol, Messi has taken note of Paulinho’s drop off in form.

And he’s said to be particularly concerned by the midfielder’s slowness on the ball and perennial sideways passing.

Messi has apparently ‘raised the alarm bells’ at Barcelona having previously welcomed Paulinho to the club.

And it’s claimed he believes the 29-year-old could repeat Turan’s disappointing stint in Catalunya.

Philippe Coutinho’s arrival at Barcelona has also had an impact on Paulinho’s status.

And Paulinho is no longer said to be one of the untouchables in Valverde’s squad.

Valverde has attempted to end Paulinho’s slump by handing him a much-needed rest.

But the former Tottenham flop may be forced to play his way out of it with a congested run of fixtures still to come.