The Fans Football Blog3

British newspaper The Observer claims that Barcelona is preparing to sell players in the summer because of an unexpected 30 million euro deficit due to a dispute over television rights, which would endanger the club's transfers' plan.

Barcelona will encourage Manchester City interest to step up their interest in Barcelona forward and French international Thierry Henry (31) to support their own recruitment strategy.

They would like to replace Henry with Arsenal winger and Dutch international Robin van Persie (25) and add his Arsenal team-mate Cesc Fàbregas (21) to their midfield, but currently do not have the resources to fund both transfers.

Although Henry has been a more effective force this campaign, the Frenchman turns 32 in August and is considered replaceable. While Barcelona would accept far less than the 125 million euro° buyout clause, the player himself is understood to be unwilling to switch the success and climate of Barcelona for the uncertainty of chasing a top-four place at Manchester City and the possibility of jeopardising his place in France's 2010 World Cup squad.

Barcelona would also be receptive to offers for forward Samuel Eto'o (28), who they fear losing for nothing when his contract expires at the end of next season, and midfielders Yaya Touré (25) and Seydou Keita (29), aware that both midfielders are likely to be on Africa Cup duty in January.

Read more:
Henry could be put for sale in the summer
Manchester City prepares summer bid for Toure
Van Persie to replace Henry next summer