Barcelona admit Alex Song might leave, deny interest in Rodriguez

Barcelona midfielder Alex Song

Rio de Janeiro, July 14 (IANS/EFE) Barcelona's sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta has said that controversial Cameroonian midfielder Alex Song has requested permission to leave the Catalan club and also denied any reports of signing Colombia's star striker James Rodriguez, who was the highest goalscorer in the World Cup.

Zubizarreta said the club will have new signings before the start of the new season, especially in defence. He said the target was to have a "balanced team" before the transfer window ends, reports EFE.

Zubizarreta refused to announce the names of specific players who will leave the club, but said that Song has the desire to leave the club. Both Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly in talks with Song.

Song was suspended for three matches for elbowing Croatia forward Mario Mandzukic in an off-the-ball incident during Cameroon's 0-4 thrashing that also sparked off rumours of match-fixing.

Zubizarreta also also denied any desire by the club to sign Rodriguez.

"We will be loyal to our playing philosophy," Zubizarreta asserted, adding that they will count on new manager Luis Enrique to find solutions with the players to achieve club targets.