Arsenal target set to sign for Barca

Bordeaux goalkeeper Ulrich Rame looks set to snub the advances of Arsenal and sign for Spanish giants Barcelona.

The France international, number two behind Fabien Barthez, is hopeful a move can be arranged before flying out to the World Cup next week.

‘‘I’m coming to a very important point in my career,’’ he said.

‘‘But it’s difficult at the moment to sort out my transfer because of the World Cup.

‘‘What I know is I want to leave Bordeaux and I will go to either Spain or England.’’

When asked which clubs were interested, he confirmed that Barca and Arsenal, managed by compatriot Arsene Wenger, had approached Les Girondins to ask about his services.

Arsenal had one advantage over Barca - Rame learned English and not Spanish at school - but the Primera Liga side look set to win out.

‘‘Barcelona is a big European club so it is normal to find a lot of pressure but if I go I will have made my choice,’’ added Rame.

‘‘Communication could be a problem but I will make an effort - that’s the least you can do when you play for a big team.

‘‘The club with which the discussions are most advanced are Barcelona, who contacted Bordeaux last week and from what I’ve heard it was very positive.’’