Football
Reuters 17y

Soccer-Barcelona close to Milito deal, says Laporta

MADRID, July 11 - Barcelona are close to signing
Real Zaragoza's Argentine defender Gabriel Milito, president
Joan Laporta said on Wednesday.

"It is practically done. After yesterday's conversations it
could happen this morning," Laporta told Catalunya Radio.

Barcelona have been seeking to strengthen their defence
after centre-back Carles Puyol picked up a knee ligament injury
that will rule him out of the start of next season.

The 26-year-old Milito, currently on duty with Argentina at
the Copa America, has been a consistent performer at Zaragoza
since moving from Independiente in 2003. He has a contract
until 2010.

Spanish media reported Barca were set to pay up to 20
million euros for Milito.

He would become their fourth signing after France striker
Thierry Henry, Ivory Coast midfielder Yaya Toure and France
left back Eric Abidal sealed moves to the Catalan club.

^ Back to Top ^