Barcerlona after Jose Reina as Victor Valdes replacement?

Barcelona: Barcelona have identified the Liverpool goalkeeper Jose Reina as first choice to replace Victor Valdes this summer should their long-serving No 1 leave the Camp Nou.

Reina, who is under contract at Liverpool until 2016 but began his career with Barcelona, has been repeatedly linked with a return to his former club this season and monitored several times by scouts from the Spanish club.

Reports in Spain over the weekend claimed that Reina has agreed in principle to the move and a fee has been discussed with Liverpool. That is premature, with the Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers keen to retain the 30-year-old who has adapted well to his playing style after a difficult start. Reina too has recently stated that he expects to be at Anfield next season.

Barcelona’s interest is genuine, however, and they are expected to make a formal move for their former keeper should Valdes secure a move from the Spanish champions elect. Valdes has announced he will not extend his contract when it expires in 2014 and may leave this summer, creating a vacancy that Barcelona hope Reina will agree to fill.