Barca ready to make defensive move

Premier League / Editor / 25 June 2007 / Leave a Comment

Barcelona are not set to follow the £16m capture of Thierry Henry with a move for Roma defender Christian Chivu.

After reinforcing their already-fearsome attacking line-up with the addition of the French ace, the Catalan giants are now set to bolster their rearguard with a move for the Romanian Chivu.

AS Roma sporting director Daniele Prade has confirmed that he has held preliminary discussions with Barca's vice-president Ferran Soriano and sporting director Txiki Beguiristain.

"It was a positive meeting, although only a preliminary one," said Prade.

"There are no reasons to be optimistic or pessimistic and we will meet with them again next week.

"They are a serious outfit and are interested in the player, but they have not presented an official offer."

Barca are believed to be ready to offer 12million euros in cash, as well as Ludovic Giuly and either Juliano Belletti or Sylvinho.

The versatile Chivu may also provide Barca with another option in the defensive midfielder role, as Frank Rijkaard continues his plans to reclaim the title from arch-rivals Real Madrid.

Barca currently trade as the favourites to land the upcoming La Liga crown and can be supported at 2, with Real on offer at 2.58, while Valencia are next best at 9.8.