Barca keen on United Irishman O’Shea

BARCELONA have short-listed their summer transfer targets and have targeted Manchester United’s Republic of Ireland defender John O’Shea, according to Spanish media reports.

The European champions are reportedly searching for two types of additions to their squad.

They are keen to add another creative dimension, with Arsenal’s Cesc Fabregas, Franck Ribery and David Silva highlighted as likely targets.

The newspaper Sport also claims that the Catalans are looking to bring in another right-sided defender, especially with Brazilian Dani Alves currently their only real option in that position. In addition to Osasuna’s 20-year-old Cesar Azpilicueta, O’Shea is said to be a target to fill the gap.

The newspaper claims that O’Shea’s experience and versatility make him an attractive proposition for Barcelona.

Meanwhile Chelsea are placing little credence into reports that their England midfielder Joe Cole is a transfer target for United.

The Blues, while not publicly commenting on the suggestion that Cole will head for Old Trafford in the summer, were bullish enough to privately dismiss the prospect as nothing more than speculation.