Barcelona midfielder Arthur Melo reportedly contracted a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) which forced him to miss the Spanish league leaders game against Real Mallorca at the weekend.

US-based journalist Zach Lowry, citing a Spanish source, claimed the Brazilian had been struck down by Gonnorhea and not the groin injury Barca had adduced for his absence on Saturday.

The 23-year-old wasn’t particularly missed as recently crowned 2019 Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi scored a La Liga record setting 35th hat-trick and Luis Suarez added an outrageous backheel as the Catalans eviscerated their opponents 5-2 at the Nou Camp.

The Brazilian who has made nine appearances in La Liga scoring two goals and providing three assists will likely be sidelined for a few more weeks as he continues receiving treatment for the Gonnorhea.

Barcelona currently lead the league standings with 34 points level with second-placed Real Madrid but with a superior goals difference.

Ernesto Valverde’s side who are already through to the knockout stages as Group winners next face Inter Milan at the San Siro on Tuesday in their final Uefa Champions League fixture in Group F.