Messi: "I Want To Lead Argentina To World Cup Glory."

Lionel Messi has promised to repeat the performances he showed throughout the season at Barcelona on the biggest stage to help bring the world cup home to Argentina.

The playmaker, who will turn 23 during the tournament, has been hailed as the best player in the world after a magnificent season with the Catalan club, scoring 47 goals in all competitions, but has failed to deliver for the national side.

Talking to The Sun, Messi stated, "I am confident and convinced that I will repeat my performances for Barca for my country during the World Cup.

"My dream is to lead Argentina to glory in South Africa. I hope we will do well and, as an individual, to be able to play as I do for my club Barcelona and become a champion."

Diego Maradona’s side manged to scrape through to the finals after a 1-0 win over Uruguay, but Messi continued by saying, "We struggled in the qualifiers because they are complicated.

"We had to play a few games away at the start where it is always difficult and we also had the change of a manager when Diego Maradona took over midway through the qualifiers.

"But qualifying made us stronger and made us determined to show that in the World Cup it won't be the same as in the qualifiers."

Manchester City Want Dani Alves

Manchester City have asked Barcelona to name their price for right back Daniel Alves, according to AS.

Roberto Mancini's side were snubbed by Inter Milan's Maicon this week when he rejected a proposed move, and they have now moved for his Brazilian international understudy. City are understood to have made the request during negotiations to bring Yaya Toure to the club.

Alves, 27, has been instrumental down Barca's right flank since moving for £28 million from Sevilla in 2008. His contract runs for two more years but no talks have been scheduled yet to extend the deal which has left the door open to the richest team in the world.

The Brazilian is one the best performing players in European football, as shown by his current 14th place in the Castrol Rankings. He sits comfortably ahead of Maicon, who is 86th despite winning the treble with Inter Milan this season.

Toure's Agent Says Arsenal Interested In Making Frabregas Switch

Barcelona midfielder Yaya Toure could be used as a makeweight in a deal that would see the Ivorian swap clubs with Arsenal’s Cesc Fabregas.

Toure’s agent Dimitri Seluk claims his client, who has long been linked with a move to the Premier League with either Manchester City and Manchester United, would be happy to move to Arsenal.

Following on from last week when Arsenal reportedly rejected a £29million offer from Barcelona for Fabregas, the Catalan club have decided to strengthen their hand with the addition of Toure.

Seluk has previously revealed that a move to the Premier League was all but a done deal and hinted Toure was set for a move to Eastlands, something he now feels can be changed.

Speaking to Rac-1 Seluk said: "There's a lot of interest in the deal [for Toure], Arsene Wenger likes him and Arsenal are interested. If the conditions are good, everything can be finished soon.

"He could come into the Cesc deal and Barca and Arsenal are struggling to come to an agreement. Everything has changed with City, because they talk a lot but then afterwards they don't appear to be a rich club but rather a bankrupt one."

Barca confirmed today they had slapped a €35m price-tag on Toure, something which Seluk last week insisted was too high.

Toure was a key member of the Barca side that lifted six trophies in 2009 and he extended his stay at the Nou Camp only last summer, but he appeared to fall out of favour under Josep Guardiola in the latter part of the season.

Barca president Joan Laporta is resigned to letting Toure go, and feels Arsenal must be prepared to do the same with Fabregas, something which he has previously made no secret of wanting to happen.

Robinho Interested In Joining Barcelona

Manchester City attacking-midfielder Robinho has revealed that the idea of a swap deal involving him and Barcelona striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic interests him.

Robinho was loaned out to boyhood club Santos in January to help him regain his form, after a series of poor performances for the Manchester side, and the club are now looking to offload him but want a deal which would see them recoup most of the £32.5 million they paid for him back in August 2008.

Barcelona’s Swedish striker Ibrahimovic had a poor debut season in Spain, despite scoring 16 goals in 29 appearances, wasting many opportunities, and was dropped by manager Josep Guardiola near the end of the season.

Barcelona are rumoured to be open to offers of around £30m for a player for whom they paid £40m last summer (plus the £16m-rated Samuel Eto'o).

The Catalan club have since paid Valencia £32m for Spanish international David Villa so, as the current La Liga champions tend to play with a lone striker, the Swede may find first-team chances limited next season.

Robinho, meanwhile, is desperate to leave Manchester City now they have failed to clinch Champions League football next season, and the Brazilian’s representative Evandro de Souza has confirmed that his player is likely to leave Eastlands sooner rather than later.

"Robinho's relationship with the leaders of Manchester City is very good, although it is true that there are some problems with [Manchester City manager] Roberto Mancini," he told Spanish daily newspaper Sport.

"The stay at Santos was perfect for the World Cup. If you have a good tournament, it will open the doors of the big European clubs, including Barcelona.

"Any player in the world would love to play at a club like Barca."

The chances of the rumoured transfer going ahead are helped by the fact that current City boss Roberto Mancini has previously worked with Ibrahimovic, bringing him to Inter Milan for just over £20m in 2006.

Barcelona are reported to value Ibrahimovic at £45m, so any deal would presumably include Robinho plus cash.

Robinho scored twice for Brazil on Monday as they beat Tanzania 5-1.

Ibra For Torres?

Barcelona are reportedly weighing up the merits of a move for Liverpool hot-shot Fernando Torres.

The Spain international's future at Anfield looks to be the subject of much speculation after seeing compatriot Rafael Benitez depart the club on Thursday following a disappointing season with the Reds that saw them finish seventh in the Premier League.

Barcelona's interest in Torres is not exactly new as the former Atletico Madrid star was already on the Catalan club's agenda last summer, but a transfer never materialised.

Chelsea have also been credited with an interest in the 26-year-old striker, who cost Liverpool a fee in the region of £25 million, but it is believed the Blues' preference lies with Barca's Zlatan Ibrahimovic or Atletico forward Sergio Aguero.

News daily Sport claims that, after spending around £32m on signing David Villa from Valencia, Barcelona's move for Torres would always depend on Ibrahimovic being sold first, with the Swedish ace having a £40m price tag.

NO Mascherano Transfer If Fabregas Deal Is Made

Barcelona are set to make a run at Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano — but their move for Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas could hinder any prospective deal.

The Catalan giants tried to bring the Argentina international to the Nou Camp last summer, and with Yaya Toure likely to leave in the off-season Barcelona will have to fill the void left at defensive midfield.

However, the Reds will be seeking about £30 million for the Argentine captain, which could test their transfer budget as Arsenal also want over £40m for Fabregas — with the Gunners midfielder the club's main priority.

Selling Toure, who has garnered interest from Chelsea, could earn Barcelona around £20m but with the La Liga champions having already completed a big money move for Valencia striker David Villa it is unlikely that they will be able to sign both Mascherano and Fabregas this summer, according to the Daily Mail.

Mascherano is also on Chelsea’s radar but Liverpool would prefer not to send the 25-year-old to a Premier League rival.

Yaya Toure Prefers Chelsea Transfer

Want-away Barcelona midfielder Yaya Toure is believed to favour a move to Chelsea this summer, despite interest from Manchester City and Arsenal.

The 27-year-old, who signed a new contract last season, is ready to quit the Camp Nou after failing to hold down a first-team place last season, according to the Daily Mail.

The Ivorian’s brother, Kolo, currently plays for Manchester City, but the robust defensive midfielder still appears to prefer a move to west London after already ruling himself out of any possible swap deal involving Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas going in the opposite direction.

Barca coach Pep Guardiola and outgoing president Joan Laporta insist Toure is a valued member of the playing staff, but the former Monaco player is not prepared to play second fiddle to Sergio Busquets and the attempted signing of Cesc Fabregas from Arsenal could limit his opportunities even further.

Guardiola would like to keep Toure at the Nou Camp, but because of the player’s preference for first-team football, Barcelona could let him leave if the right offer surfaces.

Chelsea were reported to have already had a £17 million bid for the player rejected by the Catalan giants.

Manchester City officials reportedly met with Toure at the end of last week and are said to have also discussed a £17m offer.

Manchest United Target Bojan

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has set his sights on a £12 million move to link Wayne Rooney with Barcelona striker Bojan Krkic.

Krkic, 19, has been with the Catalans all his career and scored more than 500 goals in the youth ranks. An eight-goal La Liga haul last season has alerted Ferguson to his talents and he is determined to pair him with Rooney according to El Mundo Deportivo.

Mexican centre forward Javier Hernandez is already on his way to Old Trafford next term, but Ferguson's doubts about Dimitar Berbatov and Michael Owen have piqued his interest.

The £34.2m arrival of Valencia's David Villa has put Krkic's place at Barcelona in jeopardy and could yet see head coach Pep Guardiola make him available for transfer.

VIDEO; Barcelona 2010-11 Home And Away Jersey

Messi Believes He's Not As Good As Maradona

Argentina star Lionel Messi has declared that he is embarrassed to be compared to World Cup winning legend and current coach Diego Maradona.

The Barcelona forward and current FIFA World Player of the Year is regularly judged against the abilities of the past master Maradona but Messi says he doesn't like the comparisons, labelling them an "offence" to 'El Pelusa'.

The talismanic 22-year-old also declared that he still has to prove himself at a World Cup finals to be considered amongst the greats.

"I do not like it. I'm embarrassed that I get compared to Diego," Messi told Sport.

"It's an offence [to him].

"To be the best player in the world I have to prove it at the World Cup."

Messi is proud to represent the Albicelestes at the World Cup this summer.

"I am Argentine and I like to play for my country."

Argentina kick off their World Cup campaign against Nigeria on June 12.

Messi And Villa Featured In New Adidas Comercial

Maradona Explains Why Messi Didnt Play Canada Game And His World Cup Promise

Argentina are by many considered to be one of the favourites to win the 2010 World Cup, but this hasn't stopped head coach Diego Armando Maradona from making a rather obscure promise if the Argentinians indeed win the tournament.

The flamboyant gaffer has promised that he'll run naked through the streets of Buenos Aires if the Albiceleste lift the trophy in South Africa after the World Cup final on July 11.

"If we win the World Cup, I'll get naked and run around the Obelisk in the centre of the city," Maradona was quoted as saying by reporters, according to AP.

Maradona also revealed that he had to explain to Lionel Messi why the Barcelona star didn't play in the international friendly against Canada earlier this week.

"If something would have happened to you in that match, I'd have been kicked. You can imagine where," said Maradona to his star player.

Argentina will have to deal with Nigeria, Greece and South Korea in the group phase of the 2010 World Cup.

Arsenal Chairman Not Denying Fabregas Tranfers Talks

Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood has refused to confirm or deny Cesc Fabregas' move to Barcelona, but insists that the club will back manager Arsene Wenger in the transfer market this summer.

Hill-Wood stated that Wenger will be able to use whatever income is generated from player sales to invest in new talent as the club look to challenge Chelsea and Manchester United for the Premier League title next season.

"It is our policy that we give the manager a transfer budget, which includes the ability to use all the money from player sales,'' he told Soccernet.

"He [Wenger] will get the money no matter how much we got from selling a player."

With no pressure to sell from the Gunners board, Barcelona may be forced to pay more than they bargained for if they are to get their No.1 target Fabregas.

Hill-Wood himself refused to comment on the issue of the Spanish midfielder’s future, perhaps not wanting to fuel speculation further.

"Fabregas might stay, he might go, I have no idea, and have no intention of making any comment on the subject,” he said.

Barcelona Re Started Negotiations For Mascherano

Spanish champions Barcelona have re-ignited their interest in Liverpool's Argentinian international Javier Mascherano, according to a report in El Mundo Deportivo.

The Blaugrana were desperate to sign Mascherano in the summer of 2009, but the transfer eventually fell through after Barcelona failed to reach an agreement with Liverpool.

The Liga champions are in the market for a new holding midfielder due to the ongoing uncertainty about the future of Yaya Toure, who is continually being linked with a move to the Premier League, and Barca supposedly see Mascherano as the perfect replacement.

Mascherano's current Liverpool deal runs until the summer of 2012, but the Reds could be tempted to cash in on the 25-year-old in the upcoming summer transfer window if a good offer comes in.

The holding midfielder has stated in the past that he'd be interested in joining Barcelona and Liverpool's failure to qualify for Champions League football could very well have increased Mascherano's desire to leave the Premier League side this summer.

David Villa: "I Want To Win The Champions League."

New Barcelona signing David Villa has commented that he has joined the club when he is at the peak of his career, and has a desire to prove his worth to the Blaugrana faithful.

The former Valencia man put pen to paper on a four-year deal, costing Barcelona €40 million, and ‘El Guaje’ reckons he is joining the Primera Division champions at precisely the right time.

Marca comments that the 28-year old said: “I am joining Barcelona at the best moment of my career. 28 years of age is the best age for a footballer.

“The competition here will help me improve. I am aware of the great level of class there is here, because the best players are playing here.”

Villa also passed comment on new coach Pep Guardiola, insisting that the players hold the coach in very high regard.

He added: “The team-mates have spoken very highly of him, they say everyone has improved with him as a coach, and he makes the players feel comfortable playing football.

“My objective is to win the Champions League, because I have never came close to getting it.”

Messi The Leading Scorer In The Champions League

With the European season coming to its end at the Bernabeu on Saturday night, Leo Messi, already crowned as Spain and Europe’s top scorer, was also confirmed as the leading marksman of this year’s Champions League.

Messi had already equalled Ronaldo’s record 34 league goals for the club and won the Golden Boot Award with 68 points and after Saturday’s win for Inter in Madrid, he was also confirmed as the leading scorer in this year’s Champions League for the second year running with a total of eight goals.
 
Olic draws a blank in final
The only player with any realistic chance of beating Messi in the competition was Bayern’s Ivica Olic, who’d scored seven going into the final, but the massive Inter defence and their Brazilian keeper Julio Cesar kept him out and left him in joint second place with Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo.
 
Opener at Nou Camp
Messi opened his scoring in this year’s competition with the second goal in Barca’s 2-0 win over Dynamo Kiev at the Nou Camp and was on target again in the return game in the Ukraine, bagging the winning goal in the 1-2 victory after Xavi had opened the scoring and in the last 16 he scored twice in the team’s 4-0 win over Stuttgart.
 
Four against Arsenal
It was in the quarter final against Arsenal that Messi really shone, scoring all four goals in the 4-1 win over the Gunners at the Nou Camp, after Wenger’s team had actually gone one up.

Ibra DOESN'T Wanna Go To Premier League

Barcelona star Zlatan Ibrahimovic says he will not be moving to England this summer, despite rumours of a switch to London or Manchester.

The powerful forward has been part of the Catalan giants' title-winning campaign, but has not always seemed to fit in with the swift-interchanging, high-tempo pressing game favoured by manager Pep Guardiola.

David Villa has already signed for next season, fuelling reports that the Swede will move on before next season.

He had been touted as part of an exchange deal with Arsenal for Cesc Fabregas, while Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City are all believed to be in the market for a high-profile striker, but none of these destinations now seem likely.

The 28-year-old told Swedish lifestyle magazine Café: "England doesn't feel close. I don't like rain."

A return to his old club Malmo is also out, with the striker intending to finish his playing career abroad.

He did suggest he would be open to a coaching role after retirement, but was not drawn further on the matter.

"Football will always be in my heart, it is a part of me, but I will not make any guest appearances in the Allsvenka, not as an active player at least," he added.

"Maybe I can contribute my knowledge to Swedish football in some other way."

Barcelona Interested In Javi Martinez

Barcelona have joined the race for Athletic Bilbao starlet Javi Martinez, according to reports from Spain.

Publication Sport comments that the midfielder, who made Vicente del Bosque’s 23-man squad for the World Cup in South Africa, is being monitored by Blaugrana coach Pep Guardiola, who has shown interest in the player’s abilities.

The 21-year old is currently the Spanish under-21 captain, and will also be travelling with the senior squad to this summer’s showpiece event.

He made 45 appearances for the Basque side this season, and his displays have alerted the likes of Real Madrid, and in particular Manchester City.

Martinez has a €30 million buy-out clause in his contract, and it is likely any potential suitors will need to meet that valuation if they are to persuade Bilbao to part with their prized asset.

The skilful midfielder moved to San Mames from Osasuna in the summer of 2006 for a fee of €6m, and has became a pivotal part of coach Joaquin Caparros’ successful side, which reached the Copa del Rey final in 2009 and enjoyed a Europa League campaign this season.

Yaya Toure Almost Ready To Leave To Chelsea

The future of Barcelona midfielder Yaya Toure continues to be the subject of much discussion, and the Ivorian's agent has now stoked the flames after he revealed that his client has almost made his mind up to leave.

With the likes of Xavi, Sergio Busquets and Seydou Keita ahead of Toure in Pep Guardiola's pecking order, Dmitri Seluk believes that the best move for all concerned is to allow the 27-year-old to leave for the Premier League.

"If Chelsea want Yaya and everyone wins with this deal, why not?" the agent told the Daily Mirror.

"This last season, Toure has not played regularly and Pep Guardiola has preferred Busquets or Keita instead of him.

"If he prefers Busquets and Keita, then the best thing for Toure is to leave for Chelsea. He has made up his mind 90 per cent to leave."

In addition to the new English champions, Toure has been linked with a transfer to Arsenal as part of a deal that would take Cesc Fabregas back to Catalunya. It has been reported that the midfielder was unwilling to make the move, but his representative insists that Toure is not digging his heels in over a transfer.

"He has a good salary here but he doesn't want to earn money here and fall asleep on the bench. Some players would accept that situation. Not him. If he leaves, Barca will then understand what they will lose."

Manchester Drop Torres Bid

Manchester City have left Barcelona and Chelsea to fight for the £70 million signature of Fernando Torres after their failure to secure Champions League football.

The big-spending outfit have the resources to go toe-to-toe with their rivals due to owner Sheikh Mansour's bottomless wealth. According to The Guardian, important figures within the club have acknowledged that the lack of top-level European football has dropped them out of the running to prise the Spaniard from Liverpool.

City finished in fifth place in the Premier League last season after they targeted a top-four finish. Torres is understood to only be prepared to leave Merseyside for one of Europe's traditional elite.

West Ham Want Henry

West Ham could be willing to sign Thierry Henry. Various British media have covered the supposed interest of the London club for Barça. Although Gallo is completely decided to play in the New York Red Bulls next season, West Ham could try to convince a stratospheric salary. The contract would be for two years, and Henry would charge 86 000 euros a week, becoming the highest paid player in club history. "We are trying to join forces to get most prolific attack in the West Ham and I love that Henry was among us. Our club wants to have a striker of quality and class. It would be a good business," said David Sullivan, co-owner of the whole English.

For this reason, Sullivan says she has already made an offer to Barca. "It's a serious offer because love Henry in the Premiership," he added. " Faced with the imminent appointment of Avram Grant, formerly of Chelsea, as the new coach, the manager said they want to get rid of "signing two players and five new additions" as part of a process of renovation. Nevertheless, it seems difficult to Thierry Henry changes his mind and abandon the American dream to play for West Ham.

OFFICIAL: Barcelona Sign Villa In Four Year Deal!!!

FC Barcelona and Valencia CF closed a 40 million euro deal for Spanish striker David Villa on Wednesday morning.

The Spanish international is due in Barcelona on Thursday evening and will have a medical on Friday morning. Villa will sign a four-year deal with an option for a further year.

Villa will be officially unveiled as a Barca player at 1.30 in the Paris Room of the Camp Nou. He’ll then make an appearance on the Camp Nou pitch. The stadium doors will be opened to the public.

A goal machine

In his first two seasons in the First Division (2003-05) with Zaragoza, he caught the eye with his effectiveness in front of goal and earned a move to Valencia. The 28-year-old spent the next five seasons with Valencia, scoring 107 goals in 166 league matches.

Villa is a regular first choice in the Spanish national team and made a huge contribution to winning EURO 2008.

Arsenal Drop 40 Million Euro Price Tag On Fabregas

Arsenal have refused to lower their £40 million valuation of want-away midfielder Cesc Fabregas, according to reports.

The Daily Express has reported the Gunners will demand Barcelona meet their demands before they will contemplate any transfer for the club captain.

However, the La Liga champions are expected to open the bidding at £30 million. They are reluctant to pay more due to the fact the north London outfit signed Fabregas from them for a meagre fee when he was just 16.

Fabregas has informed Arsene Wenger of his desire to return to the Nou Camp, and is hopeful his price tag will not scupper the move.

Yaya Toure Says NO To Arsenal Switch

Barcelona midfielder Yaya Toure's decision to look to clubs other than Arsenal for a possible summer move has caused problems for the possible deal that would take Cesc Fabregas in the other direction, according to a report from The Daily Mail.

The report claims that Toure, the brother of former Gunners defender Kolo, does not favour the Emirates as a destination, despite Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger being a keen admirer.

"Toure is not going to replace Cesc. He will not play for Arsenal," the player's agent Dimitri Selcuk said.

"There are very big clubs who are interested and we like these options more."

Wenger is said to be less welcoming of other potential swap deals, possibly involving strikers Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Bojan or defenders Rafael Marquez and Dmytro Chygrynskiy, and would rather receive £50 million for Fabregas with which to rebuild his team.

Barca reportedly value Fabregas at closer to £30m.

ARTICLE: Barcelona Are About To Get Alot Stronger

This is a VERY good article as to how Barcelona will become the biggest Spanish threat next year:
 
"When you are Barcelona or Real Madrid, there are only two things you do after you’ve won a major title at the end of the season; You either sack the coach who won the title for you, or you start buying megastars to reinforce the squad as if the previous campaign had been a failure.


You won’t need Google to find out which club does which, but it’s safe to assume that Barca won’t be sacking their septuple-winning coach any time soon.


Less than 48 hours after successfully defending their Primera Liga crown, Barcelona revealed that they are on the verge of snapping up David Villa from Valencia. 24 hours later, they confirmed that they have secured his signature. No fuss, no soap operas, no drawn out dramas. Although it you believe the Spanish press, the deal was already as good as done a few weeks ago and only a few minor details needed to be ironed out, as Joan Laporta put it yesterday.


With Villa in the bag, Barca will now move on to their next big target, presumably Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas. It will be yet another gauntlet thrown down to their eternal enemies from the capital, who now not only have to play catch-up on the football field, but in the transfer market as well.


While the ‘White House’ are still trying to figure out what to do with Kaka and Karim Benzema, while they are still pondering whether or not to axe current coach Manuel Pellegrini – which they very well might by the time you get to the end of this sentence – Barca are already shaping their team for next season. And it could be quite a frightening team.


Villa is unlikely to face any difficulty adopting Pep Guardiola and Barca’s philosophy, unlike Zlatan Ibrahimovic or Thierry Henry, and he should slip effortlessly onto the pitch alongside Leo Messi, Xavi, Andres Iniesta, et al. In fact, ‘El Guaje’ plays almost a similar style of football at Valencia, often combining telepathically with the likes of David Silva and Juan Mata to terrorise defenders.


Villa is much more mobile and versatile compared to Titi and Ibra, not to mention more lethal in front of goal. Imagine an Ibrahimovic won doesn’t lumber around on the pitch, a more consistent Bojan, a more experienced Pedro, and an Henry who won’t complain about being played out of position.


Then there’s Fabregas. The Gunners captain has already met his manager at the Emirates, Arsene Wenger, to inform him of his desire to return to the Camp Nou. But there’s no indication yet that the Blaurgana will actually make a move for the playmaker or if the north London club will formally agree to sell their star man.


Barca’s biggest problem may not be whether or not they can afford him this summer, or whether technical secretary Txiki Begiristain will deem Cesc a player that the Catalan giants need at present, but where to put him on the matchday team sheet if he does arrive.


Does Guardiola move Iniesta upfront to partner Villa and Messi in attack, and slot Fabregas alongside Xavi in midfield? That’s about as mouth-watering an attacking unit as you can get. It would be like watching a juggler in action through a kaleidoscope. Inter might just need 21 men behind the ball next time they meet. 20 if Sergio Busquets can somehow still break into the first XI.


Oh well. Pep will figure something out.


Money will be an issue for Barcelona. Not that they don’t have any of it. It’s just that they are not one to go crazy and spend excessively beyond their means. Villa will officially cost the Catalans €40 million, while Arsenal are unlikely to let Fabregas go for anything less than that amount. But there are other parts of the squad that need a makeover, such as defence – especially defence – and perhaps the holding midfield position.


Having such an over-abundance of attacking talent is all well and fine for fantasy football enthusiasts, and if Barca do eventually add Cesc to the side, they could be playing football so outrageous that they may even be able to communicate with extra-terrestrials through their passing patterns on the pitch. But cramming too much firepower into the side and neglecting other parts of the team, namely in defence, could lead to a sensational collapse, as Madrid will attest.


Speaking of Madrid, for their part the Merengues, in trying to keep up with their ferocious foes, have openly confessed that they will continue to spend this summer, albeit probably not to the tune of a quarter of a billion euros. Instead, there will be a few additions here and there.


Whether those additions will cost €100 million each remains to be seen. Whatever the case, if they wish to save a few quid, they better get cracking soon in the transfer market before the World Cup starts.


If there were complaints about the huge gap that exists in La Liga this past season between the perennial big two and the best of the rest, well, the gap is about to widen significantly next term if Fabregas joins Villa at the Camp Nou.


As for the rest of Europe, they will just have to clone Jose Mourinho. Or Kurban Berdyev."

No Fabregas Offer Yet

Arsenal have yet to receive any bid for wantaway club captain Cesc Fabregas despite his wish to move to Barcelona, according to Sky Sports News.

The £40 million rated Spanish international is understood to have told manager Arsene Wenger about his desire to leave north London. Nou Camp big-wigs Joan Laporta and Txiki Begiristain had both commented that they expect to move for Fabregas.

The Gunners instead have stuck to the line they are not soliciting any approach and wish to hold the midifeld to his contract which runs until 2015.

VIDEO: David Villa Says Good Bye

Interview With Barcelona Sports Director Txiki

The Technical Secretary has a high opinion of the Spanish international striker but has no plans to offload two of the current strikers: “Ibra’s not for sale…Bojan is definitely staying”.

Now that the curtain has come down on Barca’s season, the focus of attention has turned to the backroom staff and their preparations for 2010-2011. Txiki Begiristain talks us through some of the issues occupying his mind in an exclusive interview with Barca TV and www.fcbarcelona.cat

¿Have you made your plans for next season yet?

"Yes, yes. With Pep. It’s really important. He’s definitely staying next season and he’s involved in all the planning. It’ll depend on financial aspects but we’re confident and we’ll keep at it. All decisions are taken and supported by Pep”.

Does the squad need many changes

"Not many, but it’s our job to keep looking for improvements. In some areas we’re not performing as well as last year and so they have to be improved”.

Does David Villa have a Barca profile?
"Yes, like Leo combining the position of centre forward or cutting in from the right wing. He‘s one of those players who make good diagonal runs, who use space well and give the team depth.. David Villa has this profile”.

Cesc says that if he leaves Arsenal he wants to come to Barca. That’s a first step.

"It’s good news. But what really counts here is Arsenal and their decision. Remember that he’s a really important player for them. And we have to respect that. Sometimes, players don’t get what they want because they are bound by contracts. The fact that he says that he wants to come to Barca is a sign that we’re doing a good job here. It’s great news and I think that Cesc has to come to Barca some time or the other. I don’t know when but I get the impression that he’s a Barca type of player and would have a great time here. Some time or the other he has to come. I hope it’s as soon as possible. But we have to respect Arsenal’s wishes and his contract”.

Will any of the reserves make the move up to the first team squad?
"Not directly. The youngsters we develop here have to play. What we want is for the player to combine training with the first team but playing for Barca Atletic. Jonathan and Thiago are two candidates for this role”.

Let’s talk about some of the protagonists of this season. Has Messi reached his ceiling?

"It’s difficult to ask any more of him. His stats are impressive. It would be ideal next season if Messi didn’t score as many goals that the others made up for it with their contributions. This year, in the end, Ibra scored a lot of goals and so did Pedro. And Bojan also got a lot of goals towards the end. But if we believe that Messi has to score 47 goals for Barca to be champions then we’re going badly. The main thing is that the contribution from the rest is more effective and that way we’ll take some of the pressure off Leo. It wouldn’t be fair to ask more of him. He’s had an incredible season. He’ll win it all again”.

Piqué has also had a splendid year. Comparing him to Franz Beckenbauer isn’t such an exaggeration, is it?

"And more so after an excellent season the year before. You’re never sure if you’ll be able to maintain the standard. But he has and he’s consolidated his place in the centre of the back line and we’re really happy. Also about his decision to wait for Barca and for the Club’s decision to sign him”.

Has Marquez become a victim of the competition for places in the centre of the defence?
“You have to remember something about Marquez. Last year he had an injury that kept him out of the finals but he had an amazing season. When Rafa Marquez had a great season we won everything. And at the same time, Piqué joined us, Puyol was in great form and Milito made his comeback. So at the end it wasn’t easy to keep a place in the team. But as always he behaved fantastically. But the thing is we’re talking about a Barca that wants to win the lot so it’s not easy to play. Nobody’s guaranteed a place”.

Why hasn’t Chigrinski been a success in his first season?

"For the same reasons. Because it’s very difficult. 'Puyi' is the captain and is first choice in the Spanish national team. Gerard has had two excellent seasons and doing better than that is difficult. We have to have a full squad with a lot of players. What it doesn’t mean is that whoever doesn’t play is a bad player. That’s always a risk. People tend to label it as a mistake, as a player who isn’t any use. But that’s not so. Who’s got a better pairing than ‘Puyi’ and Piqué? Who’s better than a Marquez who had such a great season? Who’s better than a fully fit Milito? It’s very difficult to outdo all of that. That doesn’t mean you’re no good. Chigrinski is 22; he’s got time to grow. And there’s something he’s got in his favour: his attitude is extraordinary, his behaviour in the changing room is fantastic, he’s much liked by his team-mates. We’ll see if he’s able to grow and compete with these players”.

Did you expect Pedro to take off like that?

"He’s really taken off. What I did see very clearly is that since last year he has made a big contribution every time he played. His performances have been brilliant in one particular way: he’s scored in every important match. Not only in every competition but also the decisive goals. In fact we’re talking about last season, about the 26 goals scored by Henry, one of the best players in the history of the English Premier League. He had a great season and was a key player in winning the treble. And now Pedro has scored 23 goals. It’s been amazing”.

Now that we’re speaking about Henry, is his future away from the Camp Nou?

"To some extent it’s a decision that a few players will have to take, probably including Thierry. We’re delighted with his behaviour. He’s a great player. As we were saying about Marquez, we have to remember the treble. We have to be aware of the role played by every single player in the squad and that’s where Henry has to decide. He has to ask himself, What do I want to be. Am I happy in this role? That’s the role he has to play. It’s more up to him if he wants to stay here or leave”.

Ibra has scored 21 goals this season. Has he fulfilled the initial expectations?

"We can’t just look at the last month. We have to asses what he’s done since the beginning. He had a great run in the middle of the season. Then he had a few difficulties and injury problems. As always it’s the manager who has to decide who’s best and he finished the season not playing very much. But it’s his first season and we have to be optimistic. Ibra isn’t for sale. He brings a lot to the team. We dreamed of having him and we want him to stay. But as always he has to be happy. He has to be comfortable in the squad and he also has to have his say”.

Will Bojan definitely continue?

"Definitely. He’s had his difficulties. Messi is scoring goals, Pedro is getting in there and scoring 23 goals, Ibra makes runs from deep. Bojan has his difficulties but he’s only 19. He’s patient and we are even more so. We’re very patient. I’m pleased he’s been patient because he could be the Barca nº 9 very soon”.

And Touré?

"An extraordinary and important player. The question is how he sees things. The role he has to accept. We’re counting on him for next season but the thing is the players have to accept their position. Busquets, Xavi, Iniesta, Keita are all playing fantastically well. In the end you have to face up to the competition and you may not play as much as you would imagine. The player has to be the first to admit that. If they do that’s great for us. If they don’t accept it and want to discuss it, we have an obligation. We’ll never keep a player here who doesn’t want to be here”.

EXCLUSIVE: Villa To Be Do Medical And Be Presented THIS Friday

 TRANSLATED FROM SPANISH ARTICLE:

"FC Barcelona has set aside an hour this coming Friday morning for David Villa pass the medical examination at the Nou Camp medical services, as reported Catalunya Radio.
No player of FC Barcelona has been included in the operation. The form of David Villa is the same as already agreed last season, ie 7 million gross and a contract for four seasons.

Valencia striker David Villa, will wear the Barça shirt for the next four seasons in exchange for 50 million euros. The new idol of the Nou Camp will be presented on Friday afternoon, after passing the medical at the Nou Camp medical services, as reported Catalunya Radio.
Thus closes a successful love story that started Villa v Barcelona last summer, when the 'Guaje' was the last one happened in July to sign for Barca. But the need to put Samuel Eto'o made it impossible to end his move and led to the arrival of Zlatan Ibrahimovic at the Camp Nou."

Laporta CONFIRMS Villa Negotiatons

Fabregas Tells Wenger He Wants To Leave Arsenal

Cesc Fabregas has told Arsene Wenger in a face-to-face meeting today that he wants to quit Arsenal and rejoin Barcelona, Goal.com UK can confirm.

In a showdown described only as "emotional", the midfielder delivered the bombshell to his mentor and the man to whom he feels he owes his career that, following some agonising soul-searching, he wants to leave the club that he joined as a 16-year-old.

The Arsenal manager is believed to have taken the decision calmly and asked him to stay at Emirates Stadium for one more season, but the 23-year-old has set his heart on returning to his boyhood club this summer.

Fabregas, who had already said that he wanted his future decided before the World Cup, has spent the last few days thinking long and hard about whether his ambitions could be fulfilled in north London.

He fears that he will miss out on major honours if he does not commit the prime years of his career to a Barcelona side that is in the middle of a golden era. 

The shattering news for Arsenal supporters follows a claim by Barcelona’s vice-president hat Fabregas had expressed the same view to them.
Rafael Yuste told the Catalonian radio station Ona FM that he remained confident that deals for Valencia's David Villa and Fabregas were both on: “Negotiations are progressing well, especially in the case of Villa.
"The situation with Cesc is different because even if you have the will of the player it is very important to talk to his club and, if you can, find an agreement. But what makes it easier is that both players want to come to Barca.”
Barcelona are now expected to table a £30 million bid for the player who Arsenal signed for nothing from Camp Nou in 2003.
However, the Londoners are likely to demand more than £40m for a player who is regarded at the club as irreplaceable and one of the finest midfielders in the world.
Fabregas, who played alongside Lionel Messi in the Barcelona youth teams before moving to Arsenal, had previously said he “would like to go to Barcelona”, but had maintained that no move was imminent.
“I am happy at Arsenal and I am not in a rush to leave. Before I go to the World Cup I want my future sorted out because it benefits nobody if I go into the tournament with something else on my mind.” 

Ibrahimovic To Arsenal?

Barcelona could tempt Arsenal to let go of prized asset Cesc Fabregas by offering last summer's big money signing Zlatan Ibrahimovic in part-exchange.

Arsenal have slapped a massive £50 million price tag on their captain to ward off the long-held interest of the Catalan giants. However, Barcelona vice-president Rafael Yuste has confirmed today that negotiations have begun to bring the player back to his boyhood club.

Spanish daily El Mundo Deportivo has reported the Swedish superstar could be offered as a sweetener to break the Gunners' resolve. He was brought to the Nou Camp from Inter Milan a year ago for £40 million — with Samuel Eto'o heading in the opposite direction — but has yet to convince the supporters and staff of his value despite Barca's La Liga title triumph.
The 28-year old turned down the offer of a trial at Arsenal when he was a teenager, but any new move to bring him to north London would soften the blow of losing Fabregas — and his 21 goals in all competitions last season would certainly boost the north London club's bid to reclaim top spot in the Premier League.

ARTICLE: Fabregas Opportunity Of A Lifetime

A VERY GOOD ARTICLE I FOUND ONLINE THAT I BELIEVE IS A VERY GOOD READ:

His home club, a team for the ages - this is the ideal moment to make move

"Confused? You shouldn't be. Cesc Fabregas may have the privilege of captaincy and demigod status at Arsenal, as well as a settled life in London and being the undisputed first, last and every name on the teamsheet, but there is no place like home.


Bear in mind that it was as early as September, at the beginning of this season, when Cesc insisted he actually felt more at home in London - and Arsenal's money-men even played somewhat fast-and-loose with the chequebook to ensure he would stay that way over last summer.


Also consider how he proved his immense motivation at and dedication to Arsenal by playing with a broken leg, against Barcelona, just to try and do right by his club in the Champions League quarter-final. He could have ruined his 2010 World Cup chances over those 90 minutes, but played until the very end, scoring a late penalty which gave the Gunners at least some hope before the consequent Camp Nou demolition job at the hands of Lionel Messi.


And yet when at home last week - his first home - he said to the press, in his native tongue and on camera, the words "I think I would like to go to Barcelona" - a statement which was qualified by, "Whether they would want me, who knows? This is just what I would like to happen."


There is now that ominous, sickening feeling permeating around north London, even though Arsenal fans and officials have always accepted that Fabregas would return home 'some day', just as Manchester United acknowledged Cristiano Ronaldo would find his way to Real Madrid eventually. The £80 million man left earlier than was desired by his club and was widely criticised for cheating the fans by saying all through the season that he would stay.


Cesc will almost certainly follow in Cristiano's footsteps. The midfielder has today flown into London as he continues recovering from his broken leg. While Barcelona look intent on bulldozing their way to an agreement with Arsenal this week, Cesc has made it clear he would like his future resolved before the World Cup.


The only man with the power to stop this now is Arsene Wenger, if he were to use his influence over Fabregas to stall and thus kill the deal for the time being. But Wenger has never adopted such an underhand style and has always advocated the freedom of his players.


And rightly so, as this should not be looked upon as an act of betrayal from Cesc, nor even so much as a campaign from Barcelona or the Catalan media (although it has been and continues to be). It is, in the simplest of terms, a player being offered the opportunity of a lifetime.


It is not so much that the 23-year-old doesn't believe in mentor and father-figure Arsene Wenger, nor necessarily that he has lost faith in the Arsenal way, but simply that he believes more in Pep Guardiola and Barcelona's. And who wouldn't?


For Cesc, this isn't just the best team of its time, but this is also his hometown club. Knowing as he did that he would always go back at some point, would there ever be a better time than now?


Not even the great teams stay great for too long - especially at this level. Pep Guardiola, the mind behind Barcelona's explosive matter, has already intimated that he's not in this for the Sir Alex Ferguson-style long-haul, this current combination of players won't stay as fresh as it is now forever and not even a youth academy as good as Barcelona's will always produce a golden generation quite like this one for some while.


So while even the most optimistic of Arsenal supporters will say that Wenger's project is about to reignite into a major title-winning dynasty, Cesc's undoubted desire to play for Barcelona coupled with the club enduring its best ever moment means that even if he's not the captain and not got the freedom of the midfield every week, merely being a major player in the project is still an honour no self-respecting Cule could ever pass up.


It is no longer about the needs of Arsenal, nor even the wants of Barcelona - the needs and wants of Cesc Fabregas come first and both are pulling stronger than ever in the direction of Camp Nou. All Arsene Wenger has to do now is let go."

Barcelona Officials Claim Villa And Cesc Want To Join Barcelona

Club officials at Barcelona have declared that Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas and Valencia striker David Villa want to sign for the Spanish champions and have confirmed that they are working towards bringing the duo to Catalunya.

Vice president for sport, Rafael Yuste has told Ona FM, that attempts to sign El Guaje are well advanced while they are waiting on Arsenal to name their price for Fabregas as the epic transfer saga involving the former canterano seems destined to continue for yet another summer.

Goal.com UK revealed on Tuesday that Fabregas has flown to London from Barcelona to think over his final decision on whether to make the sensational switch.

"That of Villa is well advanced. By contrast, Arsenal must make a starting price for Cesc, which they have not yet done, but both want to come here," Yuste stated.

Those comments were underpinned by director general Joan Oliver, who has acknowledged that the club are looking to make key additions to certain positions in the squad for next season. While he ultimately refused to confirm or deny that Villa and Fabregas were definite targets for the summer, he has implied the club are making steps towards signing the two Spain international stars.

"Our team is like a puzzle, one feature is that it has no specific objectives, but it is true that we are focusing on three specific positions. For us it is a compliment that players like Villa and Fabregas have expressed their desire to play with us," Oliver declared, as quoted by AS.

"These players are clear that they are top professionals, but there is a long process between when they produce such a statement and when they can be here."

Barcelona VS Chealsea In Race To Sign Torres

Barcelona will join Chelsea in the fierce fight to sign Liverpool striker Fernando Torres this summer.
The Blues are set to bid £50 million for the Spain international star, but the Catalan giants are prepared to step up their pursuit for Torres.
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is prepared to give Torres £190,000-a-week to spurn Barcelona’s advances and come to Stamford Bridge.
In order to pay for the Liverpool striker, Barcelona are prepared to part with Zlatan Ibrahimovich just one year after giving Inter Milan £40m and striker Samuel Eto’o for the Swedish international.
Barcelona could seal the deal for Torres by bringing Spain strike partner David Villa to the Nou Camp as well and reuniting the devastating international duo at club level, according to The Sun.
Villa could arrive for £35m as financial strugglers Valencia might be forced to sell their biggest star to their La Liga rivals.
Ibrahimovic could move to Real Madrid, who are expected to bring in the Swede’s former Inter manager Jose Mourinho after the Portuguese has taken charge of the Nerazzurri during the Champions League final this weekend.

Henry To MLS, But What Team?

Barcelona vice-chairman Rafael Yuste has revealed that the Catalan giants are putting the finishing touches to a deal that will allow Thierry Henry to join a club in the United States.

Barca director general Joan Oliver hinted on Monday that a deal taking the France striker to the MLS was not out of the question and it appears now that such a move is quickly moving closer to taking place.

Yuster had earlier confirmed that Barca had also stepped up their pursuit of Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas and Valencia striker David Villa as plans for summer reinforcement continue.

Henry meanwhile has dismissed reports that a deal with MLS outfit New York Red Bulls had already been concluded.

"Currently, my only worry is preparing for the World Cup with France. I will have time to reflect on my future later," he told reporters.

Mascherano Still Wants To Join Barcelona

Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano has dropped his biggest hint yet that he may leave the club in the summer.

The 25-year-old has admitted he was keen to move to Barcelona last summer, but manager Rafael Benitez refused to sell him. The Argentina captain has continued to be linked with a move to Spain throughout the season, and says he would have liked to join Pep Guardiola’s side as it’s the city he wants to live in.

“The situation with Barcelona really affected me," Mascherano told the Liverpool Daily Post.

“It was a shame it didn’t happen as it was the city I wanted to live in.

“There were many discussions and problems during that month and a half. They were difficult times for me. One day I was off to Barcelona, the next I wasn’t.

“And Liverpool said I was non-transferable.

“Psychologically, it affected me as I couldn’t think in Liverpool and I was focused on other stuff and not on my work, my training and playing.

“Also we were having problems with Argentina as our qualification to the World Cup was in danger. There was a lot of complicated stuff at that time.”

Mascherano revealed he is still finding it difficult to settle in England, and admitted his wife is having problems adjusting to life in England.

He added: “I don’t do much stuff in my free time, that’s the truth.

“I could go to London with my wife to do some shopping but I have already been to London 1,000 times and if I want to go to another city I would have to take a plane.

“What kills me about living in Liverpool is that there are only two Argentinians here with me, Emiliano Insua and Maxi Rodriguez.

“I have no problem living in Liverpool, but I think my wife and daughters deserve to enjoy every day to the full and live their lives – but they have to be at home all day.

“My wife doesn’t speak a word of English, so she depends 100% on me. I live here with them. That’s my world, that’s my life.” 

Agent Warns Barcelona On Offering Ibra To Other Teams

Barcelona striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic will decide his own future after the player was reportedly offered to Chelsea and Manchester City, according to his agent.

Rumours have grown that the La Liga champions have employed Pini Zahavi to contact the Premier League outfits to negotiate a £40 million switch. The Swede has endured an up-and-down season at Camp Nou, and sections of the Catalans' management are understood to be upset with his contribution.

Speaking to El Mundo Deportivo, the player's agent, Mino Raiola, insisted that any decision will rest on his client's will.

He said: "Only when Zlatan decides to leave, will he leave. No representative can do things related to my players, and president (Joan) Laporta has no right to order anything with any other agent."

Milito Renews Till 2012

Barcelona central defender Gabriel Milito has renewed his contract with the Blaugrana for another season, reports Sport. The Argentine's contract was scheduled to expire at the end of June 2011, but he has decided to extend his tenure at the club for another year.

The deal will reportedly contain an option to extend yet again next season. The buy-out clause stipulated in the contract will remain at €90 million.

Milito, who will turn 30 years old in September, arrived at Barca in the summer of 2007 from Zaragoza. Since then the Argentine has suffered two grave injuries, but came back strong this season to play in 11 Liga matches, 5 Champions League encounters and 1 Copa del Rey tie.

Laporta: "Bojan stays, Toure, I'm Not So Sure."

 As reported by AS, Barcelona president Joan Laporta, technical secretary Txiki Begiristain, and coach Pep Guardiola, will meet today to discuss the future of the squad and are rumoured to also discuss the possible signings of Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas and Valencia's David Villa.

But the principal issue will be to discuss the current squad needs so to determine how to progress in the summer transfer window. The two players that seem to have topped the list are young striker Bojan Krkic and midfielder Yaya Toure.

Laporta is very much in favour of Bojan continuing at the club, regardless of the club's chances of signing Villa. "What is clear is that Bojan will remain. That is what I have understood. With Toure, we will have to have some discussion. He has always stated his happiness with being at Barcelona and, further, he is an important element of the team and he knows that", said Laporta.

However, Laporta is conscious that the Ivorian does want more playing time. "Sometimes, perhaps he has wanted to participate more. We need to discuss with the coaching staff and then we will see".

A day after winning the Liga title for the second consecutive year, Laporta recognized that this year's Liga race was one of the most competitive in history. "We have earned this against a great rival who have also earned a lot of points. But we deserve the title and that is why we are champions".

Theirry Henry Denies Red Bulls Agreement

As reported by AS, Barcelona's Thierry Henry has rejected claims that he has reached a pre-contractual agreement with United States MLS team New York Red Bulls as had been reported last week.

The Frenchman has declared that his future plans are limited to this summer's World Cup in South Africa and that there is nothing substantive in the reports tying him to America.

"For the moment, nothing is certain. I am a Barcelona player and have another year left on my contract", said 'Titi'.

"Currently, my only worry is preparing for the World Cup with France. I will have time to reflect on my future later".

Villa: "I Will Only Leave The Club If Necesarry."

Valencia striker David Villa is continually being linked with a move to Barcelona or Real Madrid, but the Spanish international has now made it clear that he's keen to stay at Los Che.

"I still have a four-year deal with Valencia, my contract has a big release clause, I'm very happy at the club and I'm glad to be part of the project we're working on," said Villa to Canal 9.

"I can't imagine that the club wants to sell me if it isn't absolutely necessary to save Valencia. I will only leave Valencia if the situation is there that selling me will save the club."

The prolific hitman also took the time to discuss the upcoming World Cup in South Africa.

"Playing at the World Cup is something unique and one of the biggest things a football player can achieve. I will not be distracted by transfer rumors. I have learned my lesson and will only think about playing football."

VIDEO: La Liga Champions Celebration

SORRY!!!

SORRY FOR THE LACK OF UPDATES IN THE LAST FEW DAYS BUT I WAS OUT OF TOWN. FROM WHAT IVE BEEN CHECKING THERE IS ALOT TO UPDATE SO BE PREPARED FOR A LOT OF UPDATES TODAY. VISCA EL BARCA!!!

Plenty Of Alternatives To Xavi

If Xavi doesn’t play against Valladolid, Guardiola doesn’t have to worry too much. A trio formed by Sergio, Touré and Iniesta is just one extremely strong alternative.

If FC Barcelona’s appeal to the authorities to get Xavi Hernández reprieved from his suspension fails to achieve its aim, the first team would still have a strong midfield. Xavi has only missed five games this year, but FCB won them anyway.

Iniesta, the natural replacement

An obvious option for Josep Guardiola is to substitute Xavi with Andrés Iniesta, as long as he fully recovers from injury in time. Iniesta has often filled in for him as central playmaker, as he did twice this season, at the Camp Nou against Racing Santander (4-0) and Osasuna (2-0). Iniesta also played the Champions League encounter with Stuttgart (4-0), but played wide on the left that time.

Touré, another alternative

Guardiola has also covered for Xavi with tactical changes. Twice he has switched to a 4-2-3-1 and played Touré in a more attacking role and used Busquets to add solidity to the midfield. This was done nicely against Osasuna at the Camp Nou and especially in the Champions League return match against Stuttgart. In that position, Touré played one his finest games ever for the club and the game was won in handsome fashion.

Sergio, Touré and Keita

A trident formed by Sergio Busquets, Touré and Keita has also been used with Barça employing the classic 4-3-3 system without Xavi, and once again with very positive results. All three featured against Zaragoza at La Romareda (2-4) and in Leon against Cultural Leonesa (0-2) in the cup. Touré filled in for Xavi and did an excellent job.

VIDEO: Andres Iniesta: "We CAN'T Fail."

Valladolid Boss Believes He Can Beat Barcelona

Valladolid boss Javier Clemente has revealed that he has a plan to stop title chasing Barcelona in their tracks when the two sides meet at Camp Nou on Sunday evening.

La Pucela travel to Catalunya knowing that they need to win to preserve their Primera Division status but the coach is fully aware that his side faces a difficult task but noted that they must not let Barca find their rhythm.
"On Monday I had a plan and on Tuesday I had another. As the weeks progress we change things. When I change something it's because I always think it will come good. Until five on Sunday afternoon I will continue to change something," he commented, as quoted by AS.

"We must ensure that they don't play at their level. That will require a lot of work from out team.
"I've never played a game in which we have to win to avoid the drop, in the venue of the league leader, against the best team in the world. What happens is that the importance of this kind of game is like that of many games I played in my life. I have played many internationals, cup finals, UEFA. I've played over 600 games."

Clemente also remarked that both Barca and rivals Real Madrid deserve to be champions after the record breaking seasons each has had but added that Barca play the more attractive football.
"Both Barcelona and Real Madrid deserve it. Getting 98 and 99 points are figures to win the title. There have been two of them in the championship. They've won almost all and Barcelona is ahead because they took all six points off Real Madrid. Barcelona's game is more beautiful."

Henry Set For USA Move

As reported by Sport, Barcelona striker and French goalscoring legend Thierry Henry has signed a pre-contract agreement that will see him move to the United States' Major League Soccer to play with the New York Red Bulls after the World Cup.

After an initially rocky start in his first season at Barcelona, Henry had a successful year with the Blaugrana under coach Pep Guardiola. This season, however, the Frenchman has struggled with injury, and has seen his minutes cut down substantially with the club. He has been linked to a summer transfer away from the Camp Nou for much of the season.

Despite his age, 'Titi' remains a prolific goalscorer. During his time at Arsenal, the Frenchman scored 174 goals in 254 matches, while at Barcelona he found the back of the net 35 times in 78 games.

Valencia Wants 50 Million Euros For Villa

"Operation Villa has entered the final straight and could crystallize the next week. Barcelona and Valencia are negotiating the transfer time and both parties know they are doomed to be understood before the front will enter the May 24 to the concentration of the Spanish team. The striker himself has explicitly asked to Joan Laporta and Manuel Llorente a quick fix. Does not want his immediate future will runout present, World Cup, as happened a year ago when Confederations Cup in full upon arrival at Camp Nou was a cover story. The day after the conclusion of the League, on Monday 17 Villa himself Llorente will meet to review all the details.
Although it is taking shape, the agreement between the clubs is not easy to intuit. Valencia claimed 50 million euros for Villa, a number far removed from what Barca are willing to offer. In the offices Barca move, for now, with a ceiling of 40 million and are not in any case the inclusion of Bojan to lower the price. Yes, however, would be willing to include Hleb or limbo. Valencia, however, has already leaked that only wants money. Flexibility in payment of installments would help accelerate the approach."
The entente Villa v Barcelona would not be ultimately so convoluted. Viilla accept a four-year contract plus a fifth option and a form appropriate to its statusde scorer