Packing a punch: Daniel Agger celebrates his
stunning strike against Blackburn on Saturday.
Daniel Agger has moved a step nearer an Anfield exit
after Barcelona made it clear they want to sign the Liverpool
defender at the end of the season.
Barcelona's interest emerged on the eve of Liverpool's attempt
to overhaul Chelsea's commanding Champions' League advantage at
Stamford Bridge tonight, and was confirmed by senior sources at the
Nou Camp.
Manager Pep Guardiola has monitored Agger's recent return to
Liverpool's starting line-up and been impressed with his ability to
bring the ball out of defence and set up attacks.
The Denmark centre-back provided another reminder of his
adventurous approach on Saturday, when he sidestepped a Blackburn
challenge and beat former England keeper Paul Robinson from 30
yards in Liverpool's 4-0 win, and it further enhanced his
reputation in the Catalan capital.
Guardiola's attack-minded side are already running away with the
Primera Liga title, as well as making a spectacular impact on the
Champions' League, but the former Barca midfielder feels there is
room for improvement at the back and has made Agger his top summer
target.
It is a further concern for Rafa Benitez, despite his repeated
claims that agreement will be reached with the 24-year old over
renewing a contract that runs out at the end of next season.
Talks have stalled over an opening request for a
double-your-money deal worth close on £70,000-a-week, while Agger
has also spelled out his misgivings at frequently finding himself
behind Jamie Carragher and Martin Skrtel for the two centre-back
berths.
He is in no hurry to commit himself and is believed to have
indicated to friends that he will delay any decision until the
summer, when he will weigh up a variety of options.
Apart from more negotiations with Liverpool and a likely
approach from Barcelona, Agger can be sure of an offer from AC
Milan after Carlo Ancelotti underlined his intention to instal the
former Brondby centre-half as the cornerstone of a new-look defence
at the San Siro.