Larsson poised for Barca switch, says agent

Barcelona are stepping up their pursuit of Sweden’s Euro 2004 hero Henrik Larsson, according to the player’s agent.

Rob Jansen told Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet a deal is imminent, with terms to be thrashed out at a meeting with officials from the Spanish giants this weekend.

It would seem unlikely that Larsson would sign before Sweden’s interest in Euro 2004 comes to an end, but that could be tomorrow night when they play Holland in the quarter-finals.

Jansen, who is keen to complete the deal, said: “There is certainly interest from Barcelona in Larsson.

“I will travel there for a meeting with the club about Larsson.”

Asked about 32-year-old Larsson’s thoughts concerning the deal, Jansen said: “He is obviously glad and flattered.”

Larsson claimed yesterday he had not received an offer from Barcelona, but the Nou Camp club now seem poised to firm up their interest.

Reports in the Spanish press claimed Larsson, who has scored three goals in Euro 2004, had already agreed a two-year deal with Barca, but the former Celtic striker claimed there had been no such agreement.

“However, it would be great if it is true,” he said.

Larsson is available on a free transfer from Scottish champions Celtic and has put himself in the shop window after coming out of retirement to play for Sweden this summer.

He netted three goals in Sweden’s three group games, to help the Scandinavians qualify for the last eight.