BARCELONA TRANSFER RUMORS: Song, Neymar, and Agger Linked to Catalans
Barcelona continue to search for reinforcements with the start of La Liga looming.
New manager Tito Vilanova has focused his attention on the midfield and the back line, but has been mum about discussing other clubs' players.
"I don't like talking about players who are not in our squad," said Vilanova, to The Daily Mail. "There are many players outside of Barca who I like and I cannot talk about them. It would be a lack of respect to other clubs."
Despite his silence, the Catalans' pursuit of Arsenal star Alex Song has been well documented. Recent speculation suggests the defensive midfielder would like to test the transfer market. The Guardian reported that Arsenal have not received an official bid, but are irritated by Song's interest in leaving Emirates.
Manager Arsene Wenger could be persuaded to part with Song for £15 million, and there is also talk of a swap for the Cameroonian and his transfer fee for Barcelona forward Cristian Tello.
Adding Song would add depth to a Barcelona squad that already has Javier Mascherano at the position. Since Arsenal and Barcelona play a similar style, Song would be a valuable addition and a solid substitute for Mascherano.
The Catalans also continue to pursue Brazilian phenom Neymar, according to The Express. Where the Santos starlet eventually lands is anybody's guess, but Chelsea and Real Madrid will likely challenge Barcelona for his signature.
Another top name linked to Barcelona is Liverpool defender Daniel Agger. The Catalans have heavy competition to add the 28-year-old Dane, as Manchester City and Real Madrid have also shown strong interest.
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers told the Liverpool Daily Post that Agger wants to stay at Anfield, and that the club turned down an offer of £22 million from Manchester City because the bid was too low.
"There's been contact from City but nowhere near the valuation of what the player is worth," Rodgers said. "You can only consider something like that if it is going to benefit you."
Barcelona could use another centre back, but it's unclear if Agger is the right man for the job, and if he is worth the hefty price tag.
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