Barca's Rivaldo linked with move to rivals Real Madrid

Brazilian World Cup winner Rivaldo arrived back in Barcelona yesterday to huge speculation about his future, with newspapers claiming he could even end up at arch-rivals Real Madrid.

Rivaldo, who scored five goals in the World Cup, is out of contract in June 2003 - when he could leave on a free transfer - and the Catalan club are considering their options.

Rivaldo had a row with coach Louis van Gaal during the Dutchman’s first spell in charge, and Barcelona newspapers claimed on Saturday the club is ready to let him walk away now, saving estimated salary costs of 7.5m.