Newz Forum: SOCCER: Owen swoop by Barcelona a possibility

Barcelona boss Frank Rijkaard has hinted that the Spanish club could be preparing a summer swoop for Liverpool striker Michael Owen.

The Catalan giants are said to have a 50million transfer kitty at their disposal and are reported to be willing to splash out half of it on the 24-year-old England forward.Reds boss Gerard Houllier is desperate to keep Owen at Anfield, and has started initial talks with the England star over a new deal.Fans fear that Owen will leave Merseyside should they not qualify for the UEFA Champions League and Barca's apparent interest will only heighten the nerves surrounding Owen.Liverpool, meanwhile, have moved to dismiss reports that Porto coach Jose Mourinho has been offered the job of managing the club.


[Edited on 24/4/04 by TRD]