The EU has been trying, for more than a year now, to stop the UK from talking to EU member state heads of government. Demanding that the UK can only negotiate with the EU and therefore should not be trying to "influence" the member states.
So, right at the bottom of the Independent article on Barnier's demand that the UK bring their proposal on EU citizens rights within 5 days, we see this.
Before meeting Mr Davis on Monday, Mr Barnier will hold talks with both Jeremy Corbyn and Nicola Sturgeon and Carwyn Jones, the leaders of Scotland and Wales respectively.
Not very subtle and not very cute either.