BARCA READY TO TURN TO ETXEBERRIA

BARCELONA will turn to Athletic Bilbao star Joseba Etxeberria if their attempts to land David Beckham fail, with the Spanish international considered as an ideal replacement for the departed Luis Figo.

Etxeberria, ironically linked with a move to Old Trafford during the close season, is likely to be the man that Joan Gaspart turns to if he cannot encourage Manchester United to part with their influential midfielder.

Providing United resist the reported £33.5 million approach for Beckham, Barca`s new president will consider paying the buy-out clause on Etxeberria`s contract - a massive £37.2 million!

Gaspart refused to rule out a swoop for the Bilbao wide man, saying: "I do not mean to say anything on if Etxebberia interests us. I do not want to speak on that subject."

Jose Maria Arrate, the Rojiblanco president, is bracing himself for an approach, stating: "To take him, they will have to pay 9,000 million pesetas (£37.2 million). Not one peseta less.

"In addition, if he has an offer from another club, Etxeberria will call to tell me, unlike Figo."