Barcelona are not tracking Felipe Anderson, says Braida

The Brazilian, who says he is honoured to be compared to Cristiano Ronaldo, has been linked with the Liga leaders in recent days.

Lazio star Felipe Anderson is not currently a transfer target for Barcelona, according to the club's transfer chief Ariedo Braida.

The Brazilian has been the inspiration behind Lazio's charge for the Champions League places this term, with 10 goals and six assists in 24 Serie A appearances to date.

Barcelona are the latest European heavyweight to be linked with a possible bid for the 21-year-old, but Braida has distanced the club from such claims.

Speaking to 'LaLazioSiamoNoi', the sporting director said: "There is nothing to say about Felipe Anderson.

"The papers write so many things. In one day, Barca have approached 10 names.

"At this time, Felipe Anderson is not a player we are following."

The attacking midfielder himself admits he is flattered to have been compared to one of Barca's nemeses of late.

"I'm like Cristiano Ronaldo? That's a comparison that honours me," he told O Globo.

"Last year was difficult because I was injured and had to adapt to the tactics of Italian football. I worked a lot, though, and I'm showing my qualities this season thanks to my team-mates and coaches."