RIVALDO SET FOR DUAL NATIONALITY

Rivaldo's representative Josep Maria Minguella has confirmed that the 28-year-old would then gain European Union status and will no longer be classed as a foreigner at Camp Nou.

"For the club, he wouldn't have to take up a foreigner's place and that's important for him personally as well."

Rivaldo himself has said that, although he has not handed in his application for nationality, he is preparing his case and will be applying soon.

"I still haven't applied but I'm starting to prepare the documentation," Rivaldo said in the Spanish press. "It's good for the club as they'll be able to sign more foreigners. When I'm older it will be easier to transfer me.

"Personally, I'll be able to stay in Spain with my family for as long as I want and be treated as a European."

Meanwhile, the Samba star has admitted that he has been somewhat disappointed with Barcelona's performances at home and abroad this season, highlighting the club's exit from the Champions League as a major setback.

"This campaign has been very negative, if we think about the Champions League, because this is the most important objective for Barcelona every season," explained Rivaldo.

"It has been negative, but we still have the Uefa Cup, which is a small consolation. In the league things are not great for us either at the moment, but there are still a lot of games left to play."