Van Bronckhorst wants longer stay at Nou Camp

Barcelona defender Giovanni van Bronckhorst has expressed his desire to complete a permanent switch to the Nou Camp when his loan deal from Arsenal expires at the end of the season.

The Dutch international originally viewed the loan move as a chance to gain match practice before returning to Highbury, but he has since had a change of heart after a successful spell with Barca.

“I want to stay at Barca, I am very happy here and I am planning to stay but it is difficult to say at the moment,” he admitted.

“It also depends on what Barca and Arsenal want but if I keep on playing as I am now we can plan for me staying here.”

Van Bronckhorst received a rapturous reception when he left the pitch against Real Mallorca last Sunday with a knee injury which could see him out of action for a month.

If recent reports are to be believed, Van Bronckhorst could be joined in Catalonia by Celtic striker Henrik Larsson for next season.

Van Bronckhorst played with the Swedish striker for Feyenoord, and the duo will have the chance to renew acquaintances when the sides meet in Thursday’s UEFA Cup fourth round, first leg tie.

“Larsson is the Ronaldinho of Celtic. Ronaldinho for us is very important because he is always dangerous and for them Larsson is the same,” Van Bronckhorst added.