Paris Saint Germain have reportedly been offered Porto striker Benni McCarthy in exchange for Pauleta and have also been linked with Marc Overmars.
The French giants are aiming to beef up their attack before the start of the new season, with coach Vahid Halilhodzic sifting through his list of targets.
South African forward McCarthy has been mentioned as one player being courted by Halilhodzic, with rumours suggesting a deal is on the table.
Sources in France claim Porto have offered McCarthy to PSG in a swap deal which would see Pauleta return to Portugal.
Porto officials are thought to have enquired about whether PSG would be prepared to allow Pauleta to leave Parc des Princes, although it is difficult to envisage Halilhodzic countenancing the departure of his leading scorer. However, there has been speculation that the forward is unhappy about the length of break he is being afforded before returning to pre-season training.
In addition, Porto appear to be seeking a rangy striker, rather than a poacher like Pauleta, with reports suggesting they are close to re-signing Helder Postiga.
For PSG, Dutch winger Overmars is also an option for Halilhodzic after he was informed he can leave Barcelona.
PSG´s French adversaries Nantes recently admitted Overmars´ wage demands would be too excessive for them, and it could be a similar story at Parc des Princes.
Halilhodzic is also purported to be an admirer of Chile international Mauricio Pinilla, who is likely to be available from Internazionale.
He spent the second half of last season on loan at Celta Vigo and a similar arrangement could be struck with Inter for the upcoming campaign.
