Barca to keep 'United target' Saviola
Sun 18 Jul, 2:42 PM
Manchester United target Javier Saviola has been told his future belongs at Barcelona when the Argentina striker returns from the Copa America.
The diminutive forward, who has been linked with a switch to Old Trafford, has had his future debated in the Spanish press while he concentrates on international duty, and a number of clubs including Monaco are said to have expressed an interest.
Saviola might well have returned to Spain feeling that Barcelona wanted rid of him, had president Joan Laporta not now intervened to verify the 22-year-old's status.
"He should rejoin the club as soon as possible," said Laporta, who confirmed that firm bids had been made for the youngster.
"There have been offers for him but that will not be an obstacle for him staying at Barca."
Argentina have reached the semi-finals of the Copa America by beating hosts Peru 1-0, and Saviola is not likely to return to Barcelona until next weekend at the earliest.
Should the Argentinians overcome defending champions Colombia and reach the final, which takes place next Sunday (25 July), then Saviola would not be expected back for several further days.
He could then infuriate Barcelona officials such as Laporta by pressing for his right to play for Argentina at the Athens Olympics, which would consume almost all of August.
Saviola is determined to feature at the Games, and Barca would rather have him for their opening matches of the Primera Liga season.
bon en gros MU et monaco était sur le coup mais le barça le garde et le joueur a envie de bien faire là bas 