Despite playing well, Valverde wants to keep the Frenchman out wide and does not see him as a sustainable option through the middle.
Because of that, the former Athletic Bilbao boss has told the board to urgently sign a striker this January according to Marca.
The first name on the shortlist is Alvaro Morata.
The Spaniard is not enjoying his time under Maurizio Sarri at Chelsea and wants out.
Barcelona transfer news: The club want to sign a striker to play back up to Luis Suarez (Image: GETTY)
Barcelona transfer news: Morata wants to leave Chelsea (Image: GETTY)
Barcelona also face competition from La Liga title rivals Atletico Madrid.
The Blues are prepared to sell as they hope to bring in a striker themselves this month, Gonzalo Higuain and Callum Wilson have both been linked with moves to Stamford Bridge.
If Morata was to join Barcelona, he knows that he would only be a back up option to Luis Suarez.
The Spanish boss has made it clear that they are not looking for a starting striker as of yet.
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