Getting really lively in The Transfer Tavern, when we hear that in an interview on national television, Barcelona president Joan Laporta confirmed that the European Champions have made a bid for Valencia’s David Villa.
The Catalan giants’ president confirmed that a move for the Los Che striker, who was part of his country’s Euro 2008 triumph last summer, was on the verge of a move to Barca’s bitter rivals Real Madrid until talks broke down last month.
“The team never lost interest and the secretary started working on learning Villa’s situation in the transfer market.The player’s transfer is close to worth €40 million rather than €50 million,” Laporta told TVE.
Laporta also said that the La Liga champions had made enquiries to Bayern Munich about midfielder Franck Ribery – another Real target – but that the Germans were unwilling to sell the player despite interest from Los Blancos and now Chelsea.
A move for Villa is expected to see Eidur Gudjohnsen swap the Nou Camp for the Mestalla as part of the deal.
Meanwhile, Villa himself has admitted that he is concerned at the uncertainty that hangs over his future as the summer progresses.
“I am worried that there is no stability because I have a contract with that club [Valencia]. It is not good for anyone but what they have to solve, if it is that they will solve, I hope they do it fast,” Villa told AS.
So what sort of refreshment had Laporta been taking to air this one? Have the Blaugrana really made a bid for one of La Liga’s finest? Should this rumour Fly or Die?
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