Cannavaro a Barca target

The cultured defender escaped a disappointing World Cup with his stellar reputation untouched, and it appears that the player has decided the time is now ripe to leave Parma.

Cannavaro has remained at the club despite major departures over the past two summers, helping his side to the Coppa Italia final and emerging as the idol of the Gialloblu fans.

However, as one of the best defenders in the world, Cannavaro has inevitably started to look for a club that will provide major silverware.

Interest had been shown by Manchester United, but attention at Old Trafford has become firmly focused on Rio Ferdinand of Leeds in recent weeks.

However there will be no shortage of other suitors for the Italian, and Barcelona's interest follows speculation that rivals Real Madrid, as well as Juventus and Roma are all considering bids.

It seems likely that Cannavaro will depart the Ennio Tardini in the summer, but what is less clear is the destination, or even the league that the Neopolitan will grace next season.