Reports emanating from the Spanish press continue to intimate
that Barcelona are eager to land Xabi Alonso in the close
season.
Despite still sitting atop of La Liga, all is not thought to be
well at the reigning champions, with internal wrangling said to be
at the root of a problem that has spread to a disenchanted dressing
room.
With the previously untouchable Ronaldinho the subject of fierce
criticism and the futures of both manager Frank Rijkaard and star
striker Samuel Eto'o seemingly up in the air, it could be an
interesting pre-season that ensues.
It has been suggested that there could be big changes at the
Catalan giants in the summer and it is believed Liverpool star
Alonso is a player the club want as the heartbeat of their
midfield.
Alonso has proved to be one of the Premiership's more successful
imports since arriving at Anfield from Real Sociedad and almost
certainly, Rafa Benitez would be loath to sanction his
departure.
His existing contract runs until June 2009 and it seems likely any
bids from Barca would be resisted, especially given the club's
healthy financial footing following the recent takeover.
